BEIRUT — Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday urged national unity, saying it was the country's strongest defense against external threats and a key to liberating occupied land.

"Our unity is our most precious and greatest asset ... Thanks to our unity, we protect our country from any aggression" and "we liberate all our lands, and we free all our prisoners," Aoun said at an iftar (Muslim break-fast) gathering at Baabda Presidential Palace, attended by senior political figures and religious leaders. 

Aoun's remarks came as Israeli forces continue to violate Lebanese sovereignty, occupy Lebanese land, and hold Lebanese detainees in violation of the cease-fire agreement that put an end to its war with Hezbollah. According to al-Akhbar, Israel holds around 15 Lebanese prisoners, including civilians and Hezbollah members.  Last week, Israel released five Lebanese detainees, including a Lebanese soldier, who had been also shot by the Israeli army.

Addressing a room of high-profile attendees, including former President Michel Aoun, Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdellatif Deriane, and Maronite Patriarch Bechara Rai, Aoun emphasized national solidarity. Also present were Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, and several MPs and ministers.

Before the iftar meal, Aoun met with Berri and Salam for talks.

On coexistence 

Aoun reiterated his commitment to the constitution and the principle of national unity, referencing a key constitutional provision: "No authority has legitimacy if it contradicts the pact of living together."

"The legitimacy of any authority in Lebanon lies in our ability to be together — to live, pray, fast and break-fast together, resist and triumph together," he said. "Our solidarity must be our antidote ... In all cases and circumstances, we will remain together."