Bkirki: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, declared civil peace as a "red line" during the Easter Mass, emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining harmony amid external provocations. He sternly warned that any attempts to disrupt this peace or incite sectarian or religious strife would inadvertently serve Israel's interests.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, President Aoun assured that the nation's security forces and military are fully equipped to tackle any threats, dismissing fears of potential civil war or internal conflict. He commended the Lebanese populace for their awareness and aversion to war, which serves as a deterrent against such dangers.
The President underscored the necessity of supporting displaced citizens who have been forced from their homes due to Israeli aggression. He stressed ongoing efforts to uphold their dignity and ensure basic living conditions while recognizing the resilience of those residing in border villages. Aoun reassured that he remains in constant communication to alleviate their hardships.
Aoun vehemently denounced Israeli attacks on civilians, terming them flagrant violations of international humanitarian law, particularly highlighting Article 4 of the Geneva Conventions. He appealed to allied countries to step in and halt what he described as Israeli "madness."
Reiterating Lebanon's stance, Aoun cautioned against getting entangled in conflicts that do not align with national interests, advocating for negotiation and diplomacy as strategic, not submissive, approaches. He also defended the Lebanese Army against criticism, labeling attacks on the military as "dishonorable."
In a separate context, President Aoun spoke of his positive relations with House Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, urging the media to foster tranquility and contribute to sustaining civil peace.
These statements were made following a private meeting with Maronite Patriarch, Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi, before joining the Easter Sunday Mass led by Patriarch Al-Rahi in Bkirki, accompanied by First Lady Nehmat Aoun.