Lebanese president renews call for full Israeli withdrawal

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said securing a complete Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon remains a central national objective, as the country marked Resistance and Liberation Day, which commemorates Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000 after 22 years of occupation.

In a statement, Aoun said this year’s anniversary comes amid continued Israeli military presence in parts of southern Lebanon and ongoing attacks.

“The path to a complete Israeli withdrawal remains a steadfast national demand, one that the Lebanese state is working to achieve through negotiations,” he said.

“These negotiations will not be concessions or surrenders, but rather a reaffirmation of Lebanon’s exclusive right to protect its land and sovereignty and extend its authority through its army and legitimate security forces.”