Aoun struck a defiant tone, condemning Hezbollah’s rocket attacks into northern Israel that triggered the latest conflict, while also criticizing Iran for backing and arming the group. He described both as violations of Lebanese sovereignty and reiterated his commitment to disarm non-state actors operating within the country.

“There will be no concessions to any principle, no infringement of the sovereignty of this country,” Aoun said, adding that Lebanon would base its decisions on national consensus rather than external influence.

The president also responded directly to Hezbollah’s criticism of Beirut’s decision to engage in direct talks with Israel, rejecting claims that Lebanon lacked leverage and asserting the government’s authority to pursue its own diplomatic path.

At the same time, Aoun called on Israel to halt attacks, withdraw its forces, release detainees and facilitate the return of displaced civilians. The 10-day ceasefire, brokered by the United States, has largely held after more than a month of hostilities, though Hezbollah is not formally part of the agreement.

Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel’s campaign against Hezbollah was not yet complete, while the group indicated its response would depend on developments on the ground, underscoring the fragility of the truce.

The conflict displaced more than one million people across Lebanon, with thousands of families now beginning to return to their homes as conditions stabilize. Roads leading to southern regions have been congested with vehicles carrying belongings salvaged during the fighting.

Aoun framed the moment as a turning point for Lebanon, emphasizing the need to rebuild and avoid further escalation after a conflict that has strained the country’s political and social fabric.