Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called for an end to the “Israeli occupation” of southern Lebanon

In a statement issued by his office, Aoun expressed hope that the current round of negotiations would be “decisive” in achieving Lebanon’s goals, including restoring full sovereignty over all Lebanese territory and extending state authority across the entire country.

He added that Lebanon’s “only choice is our national sovereignty” and that the Lebanese state alone should be responsible for protecting all citizens and safeguarding their rights and freedoms.