Beirut, June 13: Amid escalating attacks by Israel in southern Lebanon, President Joseph Aoun has declared that the nation stands at a pivotal moment. Lebanon must choose whether to become a strong nation governed by law or remain under the influence of armed factions.
On the 48th anniversary of the assassination of former minister Tony Suleiman Franjieh, along with his family and associates, Aoun issued a message emphasizing the critical need for national unity.
This statement was released via the presidential office’s account on X, stating, “This is a time when there is no room for religious and political differences or external interference.”
He reflected on the painful memory of this event, noting that years of peace have not taught the lessons that should have been learned from violent incidents. According to him, “A sincere national memory does not choose its wounds; it accepts all wounds and builds a future agreement based on them.”
The President asserted, “Lebanon today stands at a decisive crossroads, where all citizens must unite for a sovereign state that holds a monopoly on arms and establishes the rule of law, or the country will remain under the influence of militias and divisive politics.”
He further emphasized that the current situation cannot tolerate sectarian politics or regional rivalries. National unity is now not just a slogan but an “existential necessity,” founded on justice, equality, and the rights of all citizens.
In tribute to the victims of the Franjieh assassination and the civil war, the President expressed his commitment to a Lebanon where citizens live with equality and freedom, and where the state operates based on law and rights. He concluded with, “May God have mercy on the martyrs and save Lebanon from itself.”
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