Beirut: Lebanon has no choice but to negotiate with Israel, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated, amid ongoing tensions along the border and repeated Israeli airstrikes on the country. "There are three tools of politics: diplomacy, economy, and war. When war fails to bring results, negotiation remains the only path," Aoun emphasized during a meeting with Lebanese figures at the presidential palace east of Beirut.

According to Anadolu Agency, Aoun highlighted that the end of every war has been negotiation, underscoring that negotiations occur not with friends but with adversaries. He stressed the importance of dialogue over the language of war, which he noted only leads to destruction. Aoun reiterated Lebanon's readiness to engage in talks to end the Israeli occupation and restore its territories, emphasizing diplomacy over escalation.

US envoy Thomas Barrack is currently leading indirect mediation efforts between Lebanon and Israel, following months of cross-border violence. Aoun also mentioned progress in Lebanon's relations with neighboring Syria, pointing to 'serious intentions' to form joint committees to address border demarcation and the return of Syrian refugees.

On the domestic front, Aoun stated that his government, formed in February, is implementing major reforms, with positive economic indicators and a predicted growth of around 5% by year's end. He stressed that Lebanon has 'great opportunities for recovery' if it can move beyond sectarian divisions and unite to serve national interests.