President Joseph Aoun emphasized the need for international pressure to ensure Israel’s withdrawal from occupied territories in southern Lebanon within the timeline stipulated in the ceasefire agreement, reiterating his commitment to national sovereignty. 

“I have received positive responses from the international community, which must exert pressure to compel Israel to withdraw from the territories it occupies in the south within the specified timeframe,” President Aoun stated during a meeting with Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles.

Minister Robles expressed Spain’s unwavering support for Lebanon’s recovery and commended President Aoun’s efforts to restore stability in the country. She also underlined the importance of Israel’s timely withdrawal from southern Lebanon to preserve peace and stability in the region.

Recognition of Imam Musa al-Sadr’s Legacy

During a separate meeting with Mrs. Rabab al-Sadr and a delegation from the family of Imam Musa al-Sadr, President Aoun highlighted the latter's enduring contributions to Lebanese society.

“We remember and value Imam Sadr’s constant calls to build the individual in Lebanon and shield them from conflicts,” he said, emphasizing the humanistic and intellectual values that Imam Sadr represented.

The president reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to uncovering the truth behind Imam Sadr’s disappearance, emphasizing that efforts remain ongoing at all levels to resolve the decades-long mystery.

Government Formation Talks

President Aoun also received a phone call from Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, who briefed him on the progress of government formation. Salam assured the president that negotiations with various political forces remain active as efforts to establish a new cabinet continue.

Diplomatic and Security Discussions

Among the president’s other meetings were discussions with Lebanon’s Ambassador to the Holy See, Ghady Khoury, and former General Security Director General Major General Abbas Ibrahim.