Beirut: MP Ibrahim Kanaan announced that President Joseph Aoun's upcoming visit to Washington is aimed at ending the war, reinforcing Lebanon's sovereignty, facilitating the return of displaced individuals, securing the release of detainees, and supporting reconstruction efforts.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Kanaan highlighted in an interview with "Voice of All Lebanon" Radio Channel that Lebanon cannot afford to leave its borders unprotected or its future reliant on external actors. He emphasized the importance of Lebanon's diplomatic engagement with the United States, drawing a parallel with Iran's negotiations with Washington despite historical hostilities. Kanaan argued that Lebanon should also negotiate to safeguard its sovereignty and secure its rights.
Kanaan viewed the renewed US interest in Lebanon as a chance to enhance stability and halt Israeli military operations. He dismissed the possibility of internal conflict as "suicidal" and urged rationality to avoid further undermining the country amid competing regional and international interests.
Highlighting the role of state institutions, Kanaan stated that the Presidency, Cabinet, and Lebanese Army are working to mitigate the conflict's impact. He challenged critics of negotiations to propose a credible alternative for ending the war and noted the profound changes occurring in the region, from Syria to Iran.
Kanaan reiterated Lebanon's need to focus on its sovereignty and stability, advocating for a comprehensive solution to border issues. He urged Lebanese leaders to unite behind the state, emphasizing that national unity is Lebanon's strongest negotiating position.
Kanaan also discussed Lebanon's international relations, suggesting the country should present itself as committed to sovereignty and stability to nations like the United States, France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey. He mentioned President Aoun's stance on maintaining national positions, including rejecting meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
On the financial crisis, Kanaan criticized the lack of audited state accounts since 1993, citing it as a factor in financial mismanagement. He called for an independent audit of both the Lebanese state and the banking sector's assets, asserting that economic recovery depends on restoring confidence and safeguarding people's rights, particularly their bank deposits.
Kanaan also criticized the government's proposed "financial gap law," describing it as a mere formality now under reconsideration due to its impracticality and potential for counterproductive outcomes.