Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to neutrality in regional conflicts during an address to Arab diplomats on Wednesday.

Aoun emphasized that Lebanon would not serve as a launchpad for attacks against other nations, particularly Arab states, stating, 'Regional developments do not only impact the Palestinian people but extend to all Arab countries, including Lebanon.'

Aoun stressed the importance of a unified Arab response to current challenges and invoked historical ties by referencing Saudi Arabia’s founder Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman’s description of Lebanon as 'the Arabs’ balcony.' Sources from the presidential palace indicated that Aoun’s first foreign visit as president is likely to be to Saudi Arabia, pending the new government’s confirmation by parliament next week.

Addressing recent domestic tensions, Aoun condemned violent protests, particularly Hezbollah-led demonstrations over the banning of an Iranian plane from landing at Beirut International Airport.

'We support the peaceful exercise of freedom of expression.

However, the events we witnessed a few days ago, including road blockages and attacks on the army and citizens, are unacceptable and must not be repeated,' he stated.

Aoun also rejected claims of a siege on Lebanon’s Shiite community, calling such allegations 'baseless' and emphasized national unity, saying, 'We are an integral part of one body and one environment.

We have all paid the price of the war and now face challenges together.'

The president highlighted the importance of state supremacy in protecting all religious communities, adding, 'The state protects all sects, not vice versa.' He also expressed opposition to any political party exploiting foreign influence for political gain.

The address comes amid ongoing conflict in southern Lebanon following an incomplete Israeli withdrawal.

Reports emerged of Israeli airstrikes, including one in Aita al-Shaab that killed Youssef Mohammed Srour, the son of the town’s mayor, and injured his wife.

Additionally, Israeli forces fired on civilians near the Wazzani river, injuring two people.

Residents returning to towns vacated by Israeli forces found widespread devastation.

Al-Manar TV reported the discovery of camouflaged Israeli espionage devices left behind in border towns.

Returnees described scenes reminiscent of the destruction in the Gaza Strip, with many homes reduced to rubble.

Um Mohammed, a resident of Mays al-Jabal, described the devastation, saying, 'There is not a single stone left upon another in the town.

Every neighborhood has been leveled to the ground.' While some residents returned to their damaged homes, others chose to stay in temporary housing.

The emotional toll on the affected communities has been profound.

One woman comforted her granddaughter, saying, 'Daddy has gone to heaven,' when the child asked about her missing father.

Fatima, a resident from Shaqra, reflected on the cost of the conflict, stating, 'Those who talk about victory and liberation try to convince themselves that the price they paid was worth the sacrifice.

But all the people are hurt and frustrated.

They got the land back but they lost their souls.'

As Lebanon faces ongoing domestic and regional challenges, President Aoun’s calls for neutrality and Arab unity aim to guide the country through a period of heightened tensions and humanitarian crisis.