Lebanon's Path to Sovereignty: Disarmament and Diplomacy

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun emphasized no group should bear arms or seek foreign aid, advocating disarmament of Hezbollah. He stressed cooperation with Iran should respect sovereignty, covering all Lebanese equally. A senior Iranian official was reminded that Lebanese forces are solely responsible for national security.

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun reiterated the nation's stance against armed groups and foreign influence during talks with Iran's top security official, Ali Larijani. This comes after Lebanon's cabinet approved a U.S.-backed plan to disarm Hezbollah, aligned with Iran, to strengthen national sovereignty.

In discussions held in Beirut, President Aoun emphasized Lebanon's openness to collaborate with Iran, insisting such interactions respect national sovereignty and benefit all Lebanese citizens collectively, rejecting support targeted at specific sects.

Aoun criticized recent remarks from Iranian officials, underscoring that Lebanon's self-defense and citizen protection are exclusive responsibilities of the national state and its military forces.

(With inputs from agencies.)