President Joseph Aoun reassured the Lebanese about the readiness of the army to protect the country's borders, emphasizing that it is fully prepared to take control of areas vacated by Israeli forces.

"The Lebanese army is responsible for protecting the borders, and we are ready. If we fall short, hold us accountable,” Aoun said during a meeting with a delegation from the Syndicate of Journalists at the Baabda Palace.

He outlined the military's key role in safeguarding Lebanon’s sovereignty, particularly in areas from which Israeli forces are expected to withdraw. 

He further stressed that there was no fear of sectarian violence or division within the army, noting that the soldiers who fell during the recent Israeli aggression represented all sects and regions of Lebanon.

“The army’s mission is sacred, so trust in it,” Aoun reassured the public, underscoring the military’s commitment to national security.

Turning to security concerns, President Aoun expressed deep anxiety about the ongoing Israeli presence in Lebanon, noting that the Israeli enemy cannot be trusted.

“We are concerned about the failure to achieve a full withdrawal tomorrow. Lebanon’s response will be through a unified, national stance,” he said, making it clear that he would not accept any Israeli presence on Lebanese soil beyond the deadline stipulated by the ceasefire deal.

“The ceasefire agreement must be respected, and it stipulates full withdrawal," he stated. 

Turning to the broader issues of reconstruction and reform, Aoun reiterated that Lebanon’s future recovery depended on tackling systemic issues.

“Reconstruction hinges on reforms, and there can be no foreign aid without reforms,” he declared, stressing that Lebanon would not accept international assistance unless significant changes were made to the country's internal structures.

On the matter of Hezbollah’s weapons, Aoun explained that the group’s armament was part of a larger national solution that would be agreed upon by all Lebanese. He also rejected concerns about sectarian strife, insisting that Lebanon would not fall victim to such divisions.

Addressing the issue of the displaced Syrians in Lebanon, Aoun announced plans to form a committee once the government wins the confidence vote in order to work with Syrian authorities on the matter.

Aoun vowed to work with the government to find solutions that align with his inaugural speech, stressing the importance of putting Lebanon on the right track. 

Addressing the journalists' delegation, the president emphasized the responsibility of the media in shaping the nation's future, underlining the importance of constructive criticism.

Aoun warned against the dangers of divisive rhetoric, saying, “A stray bullet kills a person, but a wrong word kills a nation. Freedom is a responsibility; if it is not, it becomes chaos. Be responsible, do not stir sectarian tensions, and do not attack brotherly and friendly countries. If criticism is necessary, let it be constructive."