Lebanon rejects foreign control, vows to defend national sovereignty

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has issued a strong message on national sovereignty, declaring that Lebanon will not allow any foreign party to share control over its territory or people.

His remarks come following a framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon reached through US mediation, which Beirut views as an initial step towards restoring its full sovereignty.

President Aoun stressed that sovereignty over Lebanese territory and its population belongs exclusively to the Lebanese state, rejecting any form of external dominance or interference in the country’s internal affairs.

He said the agreement marked the beginning of efforts to restore state authority across the entire country, adding that the government would continue working until every part of Lebanese territory was brought under its control.

Aoun also emphasised that the agreement was intended to allow civilians to return safely to areas from which they had been displaced and rebuild homes damaged during the conflict.

Making his position clear, the Lebanese president said the country would not tolerate further occupation, the continued detention of prisoners, foreign guardianship or subjugation.

His comments reflect Beirut’s determination to turn the diplomatic framework into tangible progress, particularly regarding the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the restoration of Lebanese state authority.

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam echoed the president’s position, describing the agreement as an important step towards securing Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory, restoring national sovereignty and enabling displaced residents to return to their homes.

The agreement has raised hopes of easing tensions between the neighbouring countries, although its success will depend on the implementation of commitments and progress on outstanding issues.

For Lebanon, the immediate priorities remain ending foreign military presence, addressing the issue of detainees and ensuring that displaced families can return to their communities without fear.

The latest statements from the country’s leadership underline a clear message: Lebanon wants its territorial integrity respected and its future determined by its own people, without foreign control or interference.