Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed that the Baalbek-Hermel region is an integral part of the state, emphasizing that its residents have always been loyal to Lebanon and under its protection.

“Baalbek-Hermel is part of the state, and its people have always belonged to it and lived under its care,” Aoun said while receiving a delegation of Baalbek-Hermel tribal leaders at the Presidential Palace in Baabda.

Referring to the region’s tribal communities, Aoun described them as “a blessing” and said they embody “principles, honor, kindness, courage, and generosity.” He urged those who have distanced themselves from the state to return to its fold.

“You are the sons of the state, and the state wants to embrace you,” he stated.

Aoun acknowledged the hardships faced by the region’s residents and underscored his daily monitoring of border developments with Syria.

“I am fully aware of the challenges you face and follow what happens at the Syrian border on a daily basis. We are committed to protecting you,” he said. “Enough with the deprivation and the state’s absence from your region. This area cannot be neglected. You believe in the state, and the state must believe in you. I promise you that during my tenure, the state will come to you—not the other way around.”

Aoun recalled his tenure as Army Commander, saying he had worked within his means to assist the region.

“I have lived among you and know the difficulties you endure. As Army Commander, I did my best to support you. I have never forgotten the people of Hermel and the Bekaa, a region that has given its best young men and stood by the army in the darkest times,” he said. “This region will be at the forefront of my priorities, and the state must stand by it.”

The president revealed that he has been closely following up on security developments along the Lebanese-Syrian border and has issued instructions to the Lebanese Army to protect civilians.

“I have given special directives to the Army Command to respond to any source of fire in order to safeguard our people in this region,” he stated. “You are our people, and we are duty-bound to protect you. Enough with the deprivation and the state’s absence from your area—it cannot be ignored.”

He also spoke of ongoing coordination with Syrian authorities regarding border incidents.

Aoun cited the words of Imam Musa al-Sadr, who said, “Sects are a blessing, but sectarianism is a curse.” He extended this idea to tribal communities, stating, “Tribes are a blessing. We see in you principles, honor, kindness, courage, and generosity. To those who have distanced themselves from the state, I say: you are the sons of the state, and the state wants to embrace you.”

He called on the tribal delegation to help reintegrate those who have drifted away from state authority.

Anti-Corruption Efforts

Separately, Aoun met with a delegation from the National Anti-Corruption Commission, headed by Judge Claude Karam. The delegation briefed him on the commission’s activities and the obstacles it has faced since its establishment.

Karam affirmed the commission’s commitment to transparency and integrity, noting that it has drafted its internal regulations and code of conduct while handling complaints in accordance with the law. He called on government institutions to cooperate with the commission, emphasizing that the president’s inaugural speech serves as a reference for anti-corruption efforts.

Aoun reiterated his support for the commission’s role, emphasizing that combating corruption is his top priority.

“My biggest concern is fighting corruption, which has infiltrated state institutions and become a culture. The only way to stop it is through accountability,” he said. “I count on your role in this mission. The commission must fully carry out its duties. Work according to your conscience and the law—do not hesitate to confront and expose corrupt individuals.”

The president rejected claims that Lebanon is bankrupt, instead arguing that it has been looted.

“Lebanon is not bankrupt; it is a plundered state run by people who mismanaged its resources,” he said. “Your role is to correct this reality. Everyone is subject to the law, starting with the president. Things will not improve unless we fight corruption and those who engage in it.”