Aoun affirms for Fitr his resolve to achieve what he promised 'will not weaken'

In a message to the Lebanese people on the occasion of the Fitr holiday, President Joseph Aoun emphasized on Saturday that his determination to implement the promised reforms outlined in his inaugural speech "will not weaken."

Aoun's inaugural oath, delivered on Jan. 9, which included pledges such as the monopoly of arms in the hands of the state, judicial independence, and a policy of positive neutrality, was widely hailed in Lebanon as a hopeful sign of renewal after years of socio-economic decline and over thirteen months of war between Israel and Hezbollah.

"Today, we have entered a new phase in the history of our country, after decades of violence, wars, economic and financial crises, and the decay of state institutions," Aoun said. "To those who think our determination will weaken, I affirm there is no turning back," he added. "I will achieve what I promised myself and what I promised the Lebanese, in coordination with the government, Parliament, and civil society forces."

The president also expressed his firm belief in Lebanon’s values of unity, solidarity, and transcending personal interests, as advocated by divine religions. He stressed, "There is no salvation for Lebanon if we do not live according to these values, which, in addition to the application of laws and justice, are the only means to fight corruption, implement structural reforms of our national institutions, and move Lebanon forward in development and modernity."

Aoun also extended his congratulations to the Lebanese people, and to Muslims in particular, on the occasion of the Fitr holiday.

Meanwhile, Parliament President Nabih Berri declined to accept congratulations for the Fitr holiday, citing the ongoing situation in Lebanon and the region. "The Israeli aggression against Lebanon and its south, its persistent violations of the ceasefire agreement and resolution 1701, along with its continued war of annihilation against the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank, have created a dire situation," Berri said. He nonetheless wished the Lebanese people, Muslims, and the peoples of Arab and Islamic nations a joyful Fitr holiday.