Lebanon’s Leader Rejects External Interference in Internal Affairs

(MENAFN) Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed Lebanon's openness to collaborate with Iran under the principles of sovereignty and mutual respect during a meeting with Ali Larijani, Secretary-General of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, on Wednesday. However, Aoun firmly rejected any external interference in Lebanon's internal matters.

"We reject any intervention in our internal affairs from any party," Aoun stated. "Lebanon, which never interferes in the affairs of other states and respects their particularities, will not accept anyone interfering in its own," he added, as reported in a statement from Lebanon's Presidency.

Aoun emphasized that Lebanon's relationship with Iran should transcend sectarian or political divides, stressing it should be built with the entire Lebanese population in mind.

He reiterated that Lebanon is the ultimate homeland for all its citizens, regardless of whether they are Christian or Muslim, and that it is the duty of the Lebanese state, through its constitutional and security institutions, to safeguard every community without exception.

The president underscored that only Lebanon’s constitutional institutions represent its people and their national interests. Aoun also cautioned against any faction taking up arms and relying on foreign support to challenge other Lebanese groups. He noted that such actions have historically led to severe consequences for the nation.

Aoun also emphasized that threats from Israel or any other entity should be seen as a challenge to all Lebanese, not just a specific group. He stressed that national unity is the most powerful defense against such threats.

Larijani conveyed the Iranian president’s greetings and reiterated Tehran’s ongoing support for Lebanon’s constitutional institutions. He also renewed Iran's invitation for Aoun to visit and proposed the establishment of a reconstruction fund to aid areas damaged by Israeli strikes.

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