Beirut: Former President Michel Aoun has taken to the "X" platform to voice his strong stance on the current refugee situation in Lebanon. He highlighted the recent developments concerning the downsizing of the UNHCR in Lebanon and the reduction of donor funding, alongside the deportation programs being implemented by some European countries. Aoun emphasized the need for Lebanese authorities to revoke the refugee status of Syrians, stating that 80% of their presence in Lebanon is now illegal.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Aoun called for a significant shift in government policy. He urged the Lebanese government to move beyond voluntary return programs and to initiate immediate repatriation programs for displaced Syrians. Aoun stressed the importance of this step, pointing out that the fall of the former regime has eliminated the initial cause of displacement.
Aoun reiterated his earlier stance against any procrastination or political bargaining linked to the return of displaced persons. He asserted that with the cessation of the reasons for displacement, there should be no further delay or submission to external pressures or campaigns.