Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called Thursday for global pressure on Israel to respect international laws and agreements and halt attacks on civilians, medics, and humanitarian workers. Aoun made the appeal during a meeting at the presidential palace east of Beirut with a delegation from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. He stated, “Israeli violations continue in the south despite the declared ceasefire, including the demolition and bulldozing of homes and places of worship, while the number of victims and wounded rises day by day.” The President noted the urgent need for international intervention to ensure the safety of non-combatants and humanitarian personnel.
The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that since early Thursday, the Israeli army has killed 11 people, including five women and two children, and wounded 24 others, among them seven women and eight children, in airstrikes on villages in southern Lebanon. Approximately 17 medics from the Lebanese Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations have been killed so far. These casualties show the severe impact of ongoing hostilities on both civilians and those providing aid. A 10-day ceasefire, which began on April 17, was later extended until May 17, offering a brief period of hope for de-escalation.
Ceasefire Under Threat
Since March 2, Israel has conducted an offensive on Lebanon, resulting in at least 2,534 fatalities, 7,863 injuries, and the displacement of over 1.6 million people, approximately one-fifth of the population, according to official figures. Despite the agreed terms, Israel continues to violate the declared ceasefire daily through airstrikes and the demolition of homes in southern Lebanon. The ceasefire agreement explicitly stipulates that Israel will not carry out any offensive military actions against Lebanese targets. President Joseph Aoun's stated goal is to achieve an end to the conflict with Israel in accordance with this ceasefire agreement, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to international accords. The ongoing violations pose a significant threat to the fragile peace and stability in the region.
President's Plea for Peace
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated on Monday, April 27, 2026, that negotiating with Israel is "not treason" and described the ceasefire as "the first necessary step before any negotiations that follow." Aoun conveyed Lebanon's concerns regarding the ceasefire to the United States, pressing for diplomatic engagement to uphold the agreement. Reports indicated that President Aoun reiterated Lebanon's position in two separate meetings held at the ambassadorial level, showing the severity of the situation to the international community. Aoun questioned, "How long will the people of southern Lebanon pay the price for the wars of others on our country?" He further stated, "If this were a war on Lebanon, we would support it, but this is a war for the interests of others, and therefore I completely oppose it." This statement reflects his strong stance against conflicts he perceives as serving external agendas at Lebanon's expense.
Hezbollah's Stance on Talks
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun accused Hezbollah of treason, stating, "Treason is the one who takes his country to war for external interests." This accusation notes the deep divisions within Lebanon regarding the conflict and the path forward. In response, Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem affirmed that the group "categorically rejects direct negotiations" with Israel. Qassem stated that "It is the responsibility of the Lebanese government to stop direct negotiations with the Israeli enemy and return to indirect negotiations." He further emphasized that direct negotiations and their outcomes "are as if they do not exist as far as we are concerned, and they do not concern us, neither closely nor distantly." Qassem also claimed that Israel has "reached a dead end," asserting that Hezbollah's "resistance is ongoing, strong, and cannot be defeated," signaling the group's continued resolve.