Beirut: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced on Thursday that "the time has come for the state to return to the south," amid ongoing Israeli attacks in the region. Aoun made these remarks during the opening of a Cabinet meeting held at the presidential palace, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Lebanese presidency released a statement emphasizing the president's commitment to the residents of Nabatieh, Tyre, and Arabsalim, assuring them of the state's support. Aoun stated, "We can only make every possible effort to remain by your side, help you, and provide all the means necessary for your resilience as much as possible." He described the south as an "essential part of Lebanon" and stressed the collective responsibility of the state to its people.

The president called on all government ministries to extend their support to the residents of southern Lebanon. On the economic front, Aoun expressed optimism over the expansion of Beirut port, viewing it as a hopeful development for the Lebanese people. He mentioned ongoing efforts to attract investments from the United Arab Emirates, noting the interest shown by Emirati officials and businesspeople during their visits to Lebanon.

Non-oil trade between the UAE and Lebanon reached $4.2 billion in 2025, marking an annual increase of 35.6%, as reported by the UAE foreign trade minister. The UAE recently lifted travel restrictions on its citizens to Lebanon, reversing a previous ban due to regional tensions.

Aoun's statements arrive in the context of continued Israeli aggression in southern Lebanon, despite a US-mediated framework agreement signed by Beirut and Tel Aviv on June 26. This agreement outlines a phased Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories, with the Lebanese army's deployment to follow. Nevertheless, Israel still maintains control over certain areas in southern Lebanon, including territories held for decades and those captured during the 2023-2024 conflict and subsequent operations.