Lebanese New President Prepares Defense Policy Against Israeli Attacks

Conditions in southern Lebanon following the Israeli / DOC attack UNICEF / Fouad Choufany

JAKARTA - Lebanese President-elect Joseph Aoun stressed he would make a comprehensive defense policy against Israeli attacks and build dialogue with neighboring Syria.

"I invite all parties to discuss a comprehensive defense policy that can end Israel's occupation and ward off its attacks," Aoun said while delivering his inauguration speech.

He also promised to rebuild territory destroyed by Israeli attacks, including southern Lebanon, the Beeka region, the southern suburbs of Beirut and other affected areas across the country.

"As Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, I reiterate the country's exclusive right to own weapons," he said, underlining his commitment to asserting state authorities.

As for Syria, Aoun said he would give the opportunity to start a serious dialogue with the country and establish good relations between the two countries.

He highlighted several key topics, including respect for sovereignty and independence between the two countries, border security in both directions, lack of interference in their respective internal affairs, and missing person problems.

Aoun also emphasized the importance of overcoming the problem of Syrian refugees, which he said had existential implications for Lebanon.

Lebanese's new president is urging cooperation with Syria and the international community to resolve the crisis.

Aoun is committed to working with the next Lebanese government and parliament to build a clear mechanism that can be implemented to facilitate the repatriation of refugees to their home country.

Aoun was elected by Lebanese parliament on Thursday in a two-round vote, ending the political vacuum for more than two years since President Michel Aoun left office in October 2022.