Lebanese President lashes out at Hezbollah’s offensive, calls for ceasefire and disarmament to protect state sovereignty
BEIRUT, Lebanon: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun delivered one of his most forceful rebukes yet of Hezbollah on Monday, accusing the Iran‑backed militia of deliberately trying to “collapse” the Lebanese state by dragging the country into a widening conflict with Israel.
Speaking in a virtual summit with European Union leaders, Aoun said Hezbollah’s March 2 rocket offensive launched in retaliation for the killing of Iran’s supreme leader was a “transparent trap” meant to plunge Lebanon into chaos for Tehran’s strategic interests. He argued that the group’s actions violated the state’s authority and jeopardized national stability.
With Lebanon reeling from intense Israeli air strikes and mounting displacement, the president unveiled a four‑point peace proposal. His plan calls for an unconditional ceasefire, enhanced support for the Lebanese Army to disarm non‑state armed groups, reinforced border security, and direct negotiations with Israel under international auspices.
Aoun’s stance also drew backing from Syrian President Ahmed al‑Sharaa, who expressed support for disarming Hezbollah. But the group’s leaders have dismissed the calls, vowing to defend what they describe as “resistance”.
Lebanon’s parliament has also postponed national elections by two years amid the crisis, underscoring deep political fractures. The renewed conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands and threatens to destabilize the country further if it continues unchecked.
About The Author
