Beirut: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized on Wednesday that Lebanon is maintaining an independent approach in its ongoing negotiations, asserting that any agreements will be achieved through the Lebanese state and not at its cost. During a meeting with a delegation of Maronite bishops from the diaspora, Aoun highlighted the assurances that Lebanon is ensuring its autonomy in these discussions.

According to Anadolu Agency, a statement from the Lebanese presidency further conveyed President Aoun's stance, expressing Beirut's support for a ceasefire and its openness to assistance from any nation willing to help, including Iran. He reiterated, 'The Lebanese state is conducting the negotiations, and it is sovereign in its decision-making. No one takes its place, and any settlement will be through Lebanon, not at its expense.'

The backdrop of these negotiations is marked by an ongoing offensive by Israel on Lebanon since March 2. This conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties and injuries, with more than 1 million people displaced, as per official figures.