Alternative Headline: Aoun Confronts Iran, Insists on Negotiation and State Authority as U.S. Tensions Rise
BEIRUT, LEBANON: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun issued a powerful declaration on Tuesday, asserting that the “military aspect” of Hezbollah is “over,” and emphasizing that negotiation is now Lebanon’s only viable option. The president’s statements, made during an interview with Asas Media, represent a strong public pivot toward state control and away from the armed non-state actor.
Aoun claimed that the party itself “recognizes this reality and is seeking a dignified exit,” pointing to the exhaustion of the Shia community after “40 years of suffering with no prospect.”
The President stressed that the current phase dictates “negotiation, not fighting,” citing the recent conflict in Gaza as a clear precedent where the territory was “completely destroyed before everyone returned to the negotiating table.” This view suggests that the cost of continued conflict, particularly for Hezbollah and its supporters, is now unsustainable.
Aoun further solidified his vision for Lebanese sovereignty by revealing a tense confrontation with Ali Larijani, the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. The Lebanese President disclosed that he challenged the Iranian official with “harsh words,” telling him directly: “The Shia of Lebanon are my responsibility, not yours.” Aoun noted that the Iranian official left the presidential palace “tense” and that he refused a subsequent request for another appointment.
President Aoun affirmed his role as a “statesman” focused on long-term national interest, stating his goal is to “build a normal country where Lebanese people live with dignity and prosperity.”
Regarding the core issue of state authority, Aoun was unequivocal about the future role of the national military. He stated that while the military institution operates “with wisdom and patience,” “restricting weapons and decision-making remains the A to Z of state-building.”
He confirmed that the Lebanese Army “is not powerless and carries legitimacy and the support of the Lebanese people,” promising that the state “will impose its authority over every inch of its territory.” He concluded by assuring the public, “Things need some time, but we will arrive in the end.”
These internal tensions were reflected externally on Tuesday, as a planned visit by Lebanese Army Commander Rodolphe Hekel to the United States was canceled amid rising friction between Washington and Beirut concerning the disarmament of Hezbollah.
