President Joseph Aoun in Baabda on February 16, 2026. He is expected in Washington later this month at the invitation of Donald Trump.
BEIRUT — President Joseph Aoun affirmed Wednesday that "the formula of the framework agreement" concluded on June 26 with Israel is "the best possible and is beginning to bear fruit," stating that "Washington is now listening to Lebanon," just days before his meeting with the White House occupant and as direct negotiations continue in Rome between Lebanese and Israeli delegations on the implementation of this text, which is causing controversy in Beirut.
"Our objectives are clear and we will not compromise on Lebanon's rights," the head of state reiterated before a delegation from the Orthodox Gathering. Israel said Tuesday it was ready to move forward with the plan to withdraw its troops from "two pilot zones" in southern Lebanon in favor of the Lebanese Army. While Beirut insists on the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the south, Tel Aviv is first demanding the disarmament of Hezbollah and insists that the initial "pilot zones" where the Lebanese Army is to deploy, according to the terms of the framework agreement, be localities where the Israeli army is not even present. On the ground, Israeli forces have in recent days ramped up pressure in southern Lebanon, continuing airstrikes and systematically demolishing border villages.
Aoun also stressed that "the right to disagree is legitimate, but not conflict," calling for dialogue among the Lebanese "in the interest of the nation and not personal interests." Hezbollah, its allies, and several political parties and movements have criticized the agreement with Tel Aviv and the matter of the "pilot zones." The president noted that "hatred builds neither a state nor institutions, but destroys them," urging the Lebanese to "choose what will save their country and protect it from external ambitions." Acknowledging that "the path is not without difficulties," Aoun nonetheless said he remains "hopeful of achieving results that will end the bloodshed."
