Baabda: President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, held a series of ministerial, parliamentary, and diplomatic meetings at Baabda Palace, addressing the latest domestic developments amid ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, on the security front, Aoun met with Defense Minister Michel Menassa to review the general situation and security developments in light of the continued escalation. The discussions centered around maintaining stability and addressing the security challenges faced by the country.
In parliamentary matters, the president received a delegation from the "Strong Lebanon" bloc led by Gebran Bassil. The delegation presented a proposal titled "Protecting Lebanon," which calls for internal de-escalation, rejection of sectarian strife and foreign interference, and a solution centered on exclusive state control over arms, alongside a full Israeli withdrawal.
Aoun also engaged with a Kataeb parliamentary delegation led by Samy Gemayel. The delegation reaffirmed support for state institutions and sovereignty, urging stronger deployment of the Lebanese Army and security forces to reassure citizens amid growing concerns linked to displacement and ongoing strikes.
On the diplomatic front, the president met with the ambassadors of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Canada. The ambassadors reiterated their countries' support for Lebanon and for Aoun's initiative aimed at de-escalation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Separately, Aoun met with Martine Abi Khalil, President of the Belgian-Lebanese Business Council, who highlighted the continued private-sector support for Lebanon while warning of severe economic risks if the conflict persists. Aoun stressed the importance of strengthening Lebanese-Belgian relations despite current challenges.
On the humanitarian front, a delegation from Save the Children briefed the president on its operations, noting that displacement has surpassed one million people and that children are increasingly at risk. Both sides emphasized the urgency of sustaining humanitarian aid and ensuring access to education for those affected.
Aoun also met with Court of Audit President Mohammad Badran, who updated him on the institution's work under current conditions, highlighting the challenges faced in maintaining operational efficiency.