President Aoun: Israel-Lebanon talks progressing, Israel won't remain on a single inch of Lebanon

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced on Tuesday that negotiations with Israel were making progress, while firmly stating that Lebanon would not tolerate any Israeli presence on its territory, regardless of the cost. Speaking to a delegation from the Maronite Foundation in the World, Aoun reiterated his dedication to rebuilding the state, even in the face of opposition from those aiming to halt reconstruction efforts.

Aoun expressed optimism regarding the ongoing talks with Israel, asserting that diplomacy provided a more viable path forward than engaging in destructive warfare. He also mentioned that the framework agreement had helped limit the extent of Israeli attacks on Lebanon, which had in turn encouraged a greater number of Lebanese to return to their country during the summer months.

However, Aoun emphasized that the ultimate goal of the negotiations remained securing a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and the release of Lebanese prisoners. He stressed that there was no disagreement among Lebanese people on these objectives, which included the reconstruction of any damaged areas.

Aoun challenged the belief that territory seized by force could only be regained through further force, emphasizing the ongoing diplomatic process as a more effective means of recovery. He pointed out that residents of southern Lebanon deserved the chance to live in peace on their land instead of enduring ongoing conflict driven by non-Lebanese interests.

The most recent meeting between Israeli and Lebanese officials took place in Rome on August 6, where discussions focused on Hezbollah's disarmament, an Israeli withdrawal pilot program, and a comprehensive peace and security agreement. A US State Department spokesperson confirmed these talks. The next round of Israel-Lebanon talks is anticipated to occur in early September, according to a US official speaking to Al-Arabiya English.