Beirut:Lebanese President Joseph Aoun issued a warning on Thursday about the region facing 'very significant' challenges, expressing hope that these challenges would not escalate into wider conflict.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Aoun made his remarks while presiding over a Cabinet session at the presidential palace in Baabda, east of Beirut, which was attended by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Aoun emphasized the need for Lebanese parties to 'exercise wisdom, awareness and restraint' to protect the nation from the impact of regional tensions, highlighting Lebanon's ongoing economic difficulties.

Aoun's warning comes amidst reports from Western media about potential US and Israeli military actions against Iran. The timing of these actions is uncertain, with Israeli Knesset elections scheduled for October 27 and US midterm elections for November 3.

Additionally, Aoun reiterated Lebanon's solidarity with Saudi Arabia following recent Houthi attacks on the Kingdom and expressed gratitude towards Qatar for its assistance in the energy sector. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani had announced a major investment project on October 16 aimed at enhancing Lebanon's economic stability and addressing its electricity shortages.