President Joseph Aoun dismissed claims of a siege on Lebanon’s Shiite community, asserting that such allegations were unfounded.
“Some are promoting this idea, but it is not true,” he stated during a meeting on Tuesday with a delegation from the Press Club, led by journalist Bassam Abu Zeid.
Addressing recent measures against specific Iranian airlines, Aoun clarified that these actions were tied to international sanctions imposed on the companies and should not be interpreted as targeting any community. He emphasized that the Shiite community remains an integral part of Lebanon’s national fabric.
Furthermore, the president underscored the urgency of restoring trust among the Lebanese people and rejected any attempts to exploit foreign influence for political gain.
“Everyone wants the state, not war,” he said, reaffirming that Lebanon alone now holds the authority to ensure security and control its borders. “Our decisions are made by the Lebanese, for the Lebanese — no one else,” he added.
Reaffirming his commitment to freedom of speech and belief, Aoun cautioned that “freedom is a responsibility, not a gateway to chaos.” He stressed the vital role of the media in constructive criticism and reform, urging journalists to distinguish between holding power accountable and distorting the truth. “If freedom becomes uncontrolled, it is the judiciary’s role to apply the law and correct the course,” he stated.
On the issue of Israeli withdrawal from remaining Lebanese territories, Aoun confirmed that Lebanon is maintaining diplomatic engagement with the United States and France to ensure Israel fulfills its commitments. He emphasized national unity in pursuing a peaceful resolution, reiterating that “no one wants war.”
The president also announced plans for a diplomatic tour of Arab and Western nations once the new government gains parliamentary confidence. He urged the media to avoid hostility toward friendly and allied nations, highlighting Lebanon’s need for regional and international cooperation.
For his part, Press Club President Bassam Abu Zeid voiced optimism about Lebanon’s future, stating that the aspirations of the Lebanese people are achievable if backed by strong leadership and decisive action.
“Mr. President, you have always made decisions based solely on Lebanese interests,” Abu Zeid noted.
He affirmed the Press Club’s commitment to journalistic integrity, stating that, “freedom should serve the purpose of building, correcting and conveying the people’s voice — not destruction.”
Educational Center for Research and Development
Following the media meeting, Aoun received a delegation from the Educational Center for Research and Development, led by Professor Hiam Ishaq.
The president highlighted the importance of strengthening Lebanon’s public education system, which has produced some of the country’s most influential figures. He pointed to a key provision in the government’s ministerial policy statement that prioritizes education and vowed to discuss solutions to the challenges facing the sector.
Concluding his remarks, Aoun reaffirmed his vision for a modern Lebanese state, built on anti-corruption measures, economic recovery and educational reform.
“A strong Lebanon can only be achieved through accountability, stability and progress,” he declared.
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