Aoun Calls for Government to Supplant Militia Structures, Seeks Regional Peace Resolution

President Aoun has outlined a vision for strengthening state authority as a counterweight to militia organizations, arguing that robust governmental institutions must supersede non-state actors in the Lebanese political landscape.

The President acknowledged widespread fatigue within the Shiite community but stressed that viable alternatives must be presented to this constituency. He emphasized that these alternatives should take the form of capable state institutions capable of outperforming their non-governmental counterparts.

Regarding the regional conflict, Aoun expressed a commitment to halting the adversarial dynamic between Lebanon and Israel. On the question of peace, he indicated that Lebanon participates in and remains bound by the Arab Peace Initiative. The President called on Israel to demonstrate genuine commitment and willingness to conclude the war, advocating for reason and dialogue to supersede military calculations.

Addressing internal political unity, Aoun stated that officials remain aligned in their objective to terminate the conflict. He noted that Speaker Nabih Berri represents the broader Shiite constituency, not solely Hezbollah's interests.

On Iran, the President expressed a desire for positive bilateral relations founded on reciprocal respect. However, he cautioned that Tehran must refrain from interfering in Lebanon's internal affairs and should not damage the country to advance its own strategic interests.

Regarding Hezbollah members specifically, Aoun affirmed their Lebanese nationality and their entitlement to dignified living conditions, contingent upon state protection. He suggested that should the organization refuse to surrender its weapons or engage in negotiations with the government, it would face erosion of public support.