Lebanonupdated 1h ago2 min read
Joseph Aoun Tells French Deputies Lebanon Faces No Threat To Christian Presence
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Aoun says there is no danger to Lebanon's Christian presence and stresses Christian-Muslim coexistence. Lebanon commits to UNIFIL presence or replacement by European forces to secure the south.
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Aoun’s coexistence message
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun told five French deputies from the Group for Studies of Eastern Christians that there is “no danger to the Christian presence in Lebanon.” Aoun said Lebanon “cannot live without its Christian and Muslim wings,” warning that if the Christian wing is lost, extremism would be the alternative and would spread to Europe. Aoun framed Islamic-Christian coexistence as “a national and civilizational choice and a humanitarian experience,” and he said diversity can be a source of strength that enriches unity.
Aoun also said Christians and Muslims form a unique model of coexistence, and he warned that exploiting religion and sect to justify violence threatens entire societies. Aoun concluded that unity between Christians and Muslims is a “safety valve” against sedition and attempts to sow division among Lebanon’s people.
UNIFIL and European options
Aoun confirmed Lebanon’s commitment to the UNIFIL forces remaining in the south, or to European forces taking their place as a nucleus for forces from friendly states. Aoun said Lebanon’s position is that “there are no safe and sustainable solutions through war,” and he added that only diplomatic negotiation can achieve security for states and peoples. Aoun said the Lebanese state continues to act with the Lebanese army, UNIFIL, and humanitarian organizations to meet the health, educational, and nutritional needs of border villages in the south.
Aoun described the state as vigilant about the safety of residents who remain in their homes and properties until the Israeli occupation ends. Aoun also said the success of the Islamic-Christian partnership experience enhances prospects for moderation and provides practical proof of building societies that respect diversity and protect human dignity and rights.
South tensions and vigilance
Aoun addressed conditions in the south, saying ongoing Israeli attacks continue to shell, demolish, and storm southern villages and towns occupied by Israel. Aoun said those actions are “contrary to the provisions of the framework agreement reached between Lebanon and Israel under American auspices.” Aoun expressed hope that the United States and the international community will pressure Israel to stop its attacks, withdraw from the south, and allow the Lebanese army to deploy to the border.
Aoun said the state works with humanitarian organizations, UNIFIL, and the Lebanese army to provide resilience in health, education, and nutrition for residents until Israeli occupation ends. Aoun reiterated that Lebanon’s approach ties security to diplomatic negotiation rather than war, and he said wars destroy, displace, and cause casualties and injuries without ending conflicts.