Sanaa: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced on Wednesday that a US-sponsored framework for ongoing negotiations with Israel represents "the best possible option" and has already started delivering positive outcomes, as stated by the Lebanese presidency.

According to Anadolu Agency, Aoun expressed these views during a meeting with a delegation from the Orthodox Gathering. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding Lebanon's rights and clarified that while disagreement is legitimate, conflict is not. He encouraged dialogue among Lebanese citizens to prioritize national interests over personal agendas, warning against the destructive nature of hatred and division.

The President acknowledged the challenging path ahead but remained optimistic about achieving results that could end ongoing bloodshed. Marwan Abou Fadel, secretary-general of the Orthodox Gathering and a former lawmaker, voiced support for Aoun's efforts to navigate Lebanon out of its crisis. Abou Fadel underscored that any attack on the presidency undermines the nation's dignity, and stressed the importance of national unity and constitutional support during this critical time.

These remarks followed the conclusion of the first day of direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel in Rome, which involved a seven-hour meeting at the US Embassy. The sixth round of talks, held in the Italian capital after five rounds in Washington, resulted in the signing of a framework agreement. The agreement outlines a phased Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories, beginning with two 'pilot areas.'

Earlier, a US State Department spokesperson described the Rome talks as "productive" and conducted in a "positive atmosphere." The framework agreement ties Israel's withdrawal to the Lebanese army assuming full security responsibility in vacated areas and the disarmament of non-state armed groups, including Hezbollah.

These negotiations occur amidst continued Israeli military operations in Lebanon. Official Lebanese figures report that since March 2, these operations have resulted in the deaths of at least 4,324 people, injuries to 12,223 individuals, and the displacement of over 1 million people. Israel maintains its occupation of southern Lebanese areas, some of which have been held for decades, while others were seized during the 2023-24 war.