Aoun: Specter of war receded, not entirely disappeared

President of the Republic Joseph Aoun has once again stated that the specter of war hanging over Lebanon, in light of Israeli cease-fire violations intended to pressure authorities into disarming Hezbollah, "has receded, but has not been entirely eliminated."

"The current climate is positive on all levels. The specter of war has receded, but not been entirely eliminated," the head of state asserted in a statement from the Baabda Presidential Palace, reiterating comments he made during the Christmas holiday.

He also noted that "efforts are ongoing with friendly and brotherly countries to definitively remove the threat of war."

"In the coming days, the Lebanese will celebrate the holidays in a more stable atmosphere and with greater hope for the future," he assured, emphasizing that "the overall atmosphere is showing positive signs across all levels."

His comments come as the first phase of the Hezbollah disarmament plan, executed by the Lebanese Army, is nearing completion south of the Litani River.

However, the party refuses to hand over its arsenal north of the Litani as long as Israel continues to violate the truce and occupies several positions in southern Lebanon.

Security situation considered one of the best

Domestically, the head of state stressed that "the security situation is considered one of the best in the world, as demonstrated by the foreign visitors flocking to Lebanon, despite the negative impact of the significant number of Syrian and Palestinian refugees."

He also pointed out that "security services are fully carrying out their role in quickly cracking down on crimes, as evidenced by the success of the visit by Pope Leo XIV at the end of November." He further indicated that holiday and summer season indicators have been "reassuring and positive," contrary to certain pessimistic forecasts.

These remarks were made during a reception at the Baabda Presidential Palace for a delegation from al-Khoueiry University, led by Charbel Khoueiry, who was there to extend holiday wishes to the president.

During the day, the head of state also received the president of the Supreme Judicial Council, Judge Souheil Abboud, who briefed him on the results of a meeting held the previous day with Justice Minister Adel Nassar, as part of ongoing cooperation to revive and improve the justice system.

Aoun also met with Lebanon's ambassador to Mexico, Georges Jallad, to discuss bilateral relations and ways to strengthen them, as well as with Lebanon's ambassador to Kuwait, Ghadi Khoury.