Lebanon's President: "Negotiation is not seeking a long-term agreement out of weakness."

Lebanese President Aoun addressed the nation on the 17th, stating that Lebanon has entered a "new phase" focused on reaching a long-term agreement with Israel through negotiations to uphold the rights of the people, national sovereignty, and territorial integrity. This is Aoun's first speech since the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel. He said that Lebanon is transitioning from a phase focused on implementing the ceasefire to a process aimed at achieving long-term stability, believing that this process will help "save Lebanon." He emphasized that shifting from implementing the ceasefire to negotiations does not mean weakness or concession, but rather aims to uphold Lebanon's interests, prevent further casualties, and end the plight of displaced persons through a "sovereign decision." He outlined the main objectives of the next phase, including demanding an end to Israeli attacks on Lebanon, ensuring the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, releasing detained Lebanese individuals, and ensuring the safe and dignified return of displaced persons to their homes. Aoun called for national unity and vigilance against internal divisions and external interference, stating that Lebanon will overcome the crisis through unity and sovereign decisions. President Trump announced on the 16th that Lebanon and Israel will cease fire for 10 days. The State Department said that the two countries have committed to direct negotiations facilitated by the United States to address unresolved issues, including the delineation of land borders, with the aim of reaching a comprehensive agreement to ensure lasting security, stability, and peace between the two countries. The ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel came into effect at midnight on the 17th local time.