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Arab News
39 minutes ago
- Politics
- Arab News
Lebanon's president urges unity to seize Arab support, pledges no more wars
BEIRUT: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday warned that his country cannot endure another war, stressing that national unity and Arab cooperation are key to Lebanon's recovery. 'The Lebanese can no longer withstand any additional war,' Aoun said, as he urged leaders to reject divisions and foreign meddling, and instead harness growing regional support to rebuild the nation. He was speaking to a delegation of prominent Sunni religious leaders headed by Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdel Latif Derian at the Republican Palace. The president condemned what he termed Lebanon's historical 'fatal error' —seeking foreign backing against domestic opponents. 'We all saw the devastating consequences of this approach,' Aoun said. 'Instead, I want to strengthen partnerships with my brothers and allies domestically to counter external threats, regardless of their source.' Aoun cited Israel as exemplifying the divide-and-conquer strategy that, he said, Lebanon must resist through internal unity. 'Our cohesion confronts this approach and addresses all challenges,' he said. The president gave reassurances about the country's future, saying that 'Lebanon is secure, and we will not return to warfare rhetoric. Our framework is Lebanon itself, destined only for stability and prosperity.' Fresh from diplomatic talks in Manama, where Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa on Wednesday announced plans for a permanent diplomatic mission in Beirut, Aoun praised recent interfaith coordination that prevented regional tensions from destabilizing Lebanon. Highlighting the emerging opportunities for Lebanon's recovery, his call was to seize the support offered by Lebanon's regional neighbors. 'We have tremendous prospects ahead of us. You witness how our Arab brothers are extending their hands and approaching us. We must capitalize on these chances and transform our nation's circumstances.' He commended the collaboration between Mufti Derian and the Druze spiritual leader, Sheikh Aql Sami Abi Al-Mona, during Syria's Sweida clashes, calling it evidence of 'elevated national consciousness and profound responsibility.' The president criticized those 'spreading rumors to intimidate citizens against one another,' while celebrating the dual contributions of Lebanon's Sunni community: internal moderation and affirming Lebanon's Arab identity. Aoun praised the community's sacrifices, noting religious and political leaders who died serving Lebanon, from clerics Sheikh Ahmed Assaf, Mufti Hassan Khaled, and Mufti Subhi Al-Saleh, to prime ministers Riad Al-Solh, Rashid Karami, and Rafic Hariri. 'No individual possesses the power to eliminate another in Lebanon, nor does anyone hold superior merit,' Aoun said. 'United, we all serve Lebanon's interests. Divided, we destroy the entire nation, leaving no protection for anyone.' Aoun reported significant progress in government reform, claiming achievements unseen in nearly 15 years — recognition he attributed to international observers. While acknowledging the absence of quick fixes, he emphasized making the most of available opportunities. Addressing corruption — which he identified as Lebanon's core problem alongside impunity — Aoun vowed continued action. 'Corruption recognizes no boundaries of color, sect, or denomination,' he concluded. Meanwhile, Mufti Derian expressed deep concern over the prevailing 'fear and anxiety among the Lebanese,' warning that the country is entering a precarious phase during continued Israeli aggression. He emphasized that UN Resolution 1701, which brought an end to the 2006 war, has been implemented solely by the Lebanese side, while Israel has consistently failed to respect its obligations under the resolution. The November 2024 ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was intended to revive the terms of UN Resolution 1701, which calls for Israeli withdrawal from all Lebanese territory, a halt to Hezbollah's military operations near the southern border, and full control of arms by the Lebanese state. But little progress has been made. 'Even the ceasefire that followed was unilateral, respected and implemented only by Lebanon. According to what we are witnessing, new agreements are now being proposed. Let Resolution 1701, which encompasses all relevant matters, be implemented in full, and let new agreements be dispensed with,' Mufti Derian said in a call for international accountability. He added: 'The Lebanese people have endured immense hardship in recent years, facing one crisis after another, and yet they have remained resilient. Today, more than ever, they need to feel the presence of a state that stands to protect them.' He reaffirmed support for Aoun in upholding the oath of office, 'which we regard as a vital gateway to rescuing both Lebanon and its people. In this critical moment, we look to you to help steer the country through uncertainty, as citizens grow increasingly anxious over the prospect of renewed Israeli aggression. We stand behind the Arab consensus, whatever all Arabs agree upon, we support,' Mufti Derian told Aoun. He praised Aoun's efforts to restore Lebanon's influential position in the region, citing his regional visits and the trust he enjoys among Arab and international partners. He also commended the president's commitment to preserve stability among Lebanon's diverse communities. 'The voice of moderation and centrism must prevail among all Lebanese,' Derian said, calling for cooperation. Lebanon is facing mounting international pressure to implement the US plan, which calls for setting a timetable for the process of restricting arms to the state in implementation of the ceasefire agreement. US Special Envoy Tom Barrack highlighted the issue on Wednesday upon his departure from Lebanon after a three-day visit filled with meetings with Lebanese officials. Barrack confirmed from Beirut airport that 'there is no deadline for this, and your neighbors are the ones who set the timetable, not the United States,' referring to Israel. On the security front, the Central Internal Security Council convened a high-level meeting, bringing together senior military, security, and judicial officials. Lebanon's Interior Minister Ahmad Hajjar emphasized the importance of sustained field operations, calling for intensified patrols and a reinforced security presence in Lebanese regions to uphold internal stability. He also highlighted the need to strengthen existing measures along the Syrian border to ensure tighter control and enhanced national security. The Lebanese Army Command announced that army units arrested 78 Syrians at the Assi-Hermel and Chadra-Akkar checkpoints for illegally entering Lebanese territory. The army also said that an Intelligence Directorate patrol raided the homes of wanted individuals in Beirut's southern suburbs, specifically in the Bir al-Abed area, and arrested four citizens.
LBCI
2 hours ago
- Politics
- LBCI
Former Lebanese FM Abdallah Bou Habib passes away at 84
Lebanon's former Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib passed away Wednesday evening at the age of 84 after suffering a heart attack.
LBCI
2 hours ago
- Politics
- LBCI
From Baabda, Mufti Derian warns of Israeli violations, calls for national unity
Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian emphasized the importance of sustained coordination among Lebanon's three constitutional branches, saying it must continue in the country's best interest. He also stressed that Lebanon has abided by U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, while 'Israel is the one violating it,' citing daily breaches in Lebanese territory. He added, 'The unity of the Lebanese is our strongest weapon against Israel.' Derian said he and President Joseph Aoun discussed ways to shield Lebanon from potential crises, describing their meeting as 'special' and affirming ongoing communication with the president 'who represents Lebanese unity.'
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
16 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
The Three Colours Everyone Should Be Adding To Their Make-up Look This Summer
The Middle East's rich and fabulous have make-up artist Michel Kiwarkis on speed dial. This summer, Michel advises us to ditch the dark liner and nude lips and enter a new era of vibrant make-up looks for a visage worthy of a close-up… Mint Green Some of us may harbour a wildly underused teal eyeliner, but for most, green is a colour distinctly under-represented in our make-up arsenal. The trick to working in this season's chicest shade – mint green – is all about the placement. 'Use colour intentionally – place it where it enhances your features most,' Michel Kiwarkis. The Products To Invest In Orange Crush If you're brave enough to regularly brave a crimson-hued eyeshadow or a scarlet lip, then this summer it's time to switch to a zingy orange shade instead. 'Lip-liner is a must – it helps define the lip-shape and keep colour in place,' says Michael. 'In summer, a matte base with a dab of gloss in the centre gives dimension and lasts longer.' The Products To Invest In Red Hot Don't shy away from 'Bright colours aren't about age – they're about expression,' Michael advises. 'Whether you're 16 or 60, a bold swipe of colour can uplift your look and mood.' The Products To Invest In
LBCI
18 hours ago
- Politics
- LBCI
Statement from MP George Bouchikian's media office criticizes parliamentary session for denying defense opportunity
The media office of former minister and MP George Bouchikian issued a statement expressing strong criticism of the recent parliamentary session concerning the request to lift his immunity. The statement highlighted that Bouchikian's defense lawyer was officially notified on July 21, 2025, to appear before the Parliament's general assembly to present a legal defense by constitutional rights and international laws. The lawyer arrived fully prepared to challenge the request and address its legal and constitutional shortcomings. However, the statement condemned the Parliament for proceeding directly to a vote after reading the request, without allowing the defense lawyer to present his plea. This move was described as a serious breach of justice and a violation of the right to defense, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the session. The statement also pointed out that, in the same session, lawyers representing the former telecommunications ministers involved in a separate case were allowed to plead before the assembly, highlighting what it called a clear double standard and inequality before the law. The media office emphasized that this was not merely a procedural error. Still, a dangerous precedent, and promised to address the issue in detail later to uphold justice, dignity, and respect for the constitution and the law.
