Kataeb Party leader MP Samy Gemayel praised the election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanon’s president, describing it as the start of a new chapter in the nation’s history. He expressed hope that this milestone would pave the way for a brighter future.

In an interview with Al-Arabiya, Gemayel underscored the historical significance of Aoun’s presidency, emphasizing that he is the first president elected in a Lebanon free from external tutelage.

“For the first time in 30 years, we have a president whose inaugural speech reflects the natural and logical aspirations of the Lebanese people,” Gemayel said. He recalled that previous presidents either served under Syria’s domination or during a period when Hezbollah controlled national decision-making.

“This prevented any president from prioritizing Lebanon’s interests or delivering a speech as clear as President Aoun’s. His address is unprecedented in the past three decades and embodies the leadership Lebanon needs,” he added.

Gemayel highlighted that Lebanon had officially moved beyond the influence of the so-called resistance axis.

“Lebanon is now capable of deciding its fate without external interference. It’s a new chapter for our country, one where sovereignty and independence can flourish,” he stated.

The Kataeb leader pledged his party’s full support for President Aoun’s vision, vowing to work tirelessly to ensure the success of his national project.

“We pledge to defend the values articulated in the president’s speech, which fully represent us. This project is Lebanon’s only path to salvation,” Gemayel affirmed.

He also called for the implementation of key measures outlined in Aoun’s inaugural address, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese Army across the country.

“Hearing the president’s speech filled me with immense pride, as though a long-cherished dream had come true,” Gemayel said.

Turning to Lebanon’s relationship with Syria, Gemayel stressed the importance of equal and respectful ties between the two nations.

“We aspire to establish ties based on mutual respect between two sovereign states. This requires the demarcation of clear borders, both geographically and politically,” he emphasized, adding that each country must respect the other’s sovereignty and engage in balanced, diplomatic relations.

Addressing Lebanon’s relationship with Iran, Gemayel firmly opposed external meddling.

“We do not seek hostility with any nation, but we categorically reject any country using Lebanon as a platform for conflict,” he said.

He criticized Iran’s role in Lebanon over the past 15 years, during which he claimed the country was turned into a military base.

“Iran transformed Lebanon into a platform for launching fighters to defend Bashar al-Assad against his own people. This was followed by wars of support that caused widespread devastation, particularly in the South,” Gemayel noted.

Gemayel reiterated the importance of continued Arab support for Lebanon’s recovery and reconstruction.

“We deeply appreciate the assistance that has protected Lebanon from the atrocities it endured. We hope the Arab world will continue standing by Lebanon to help rebuild and set it on the path to progress,” he said.

He expressed hope that Lebanon would rejoin the Arab fold and participate in the broader renaissance unfolding in the Gulf region.

“We look forward to being part of the great revival led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia. We are eager to embark on a new journey toward a brighter future, free from external constraints,” he added.

Concluding his remarks, Gemayel reflected on the historic nature of this moment for Lebanon.

“This is the first time in decades that I feel we are opening a new chapter in Lebanon’s history. I hope it will be a bright one, with the world standing by Lebanon to support its recovery and resurgence,” he said.