BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 10, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has defended the government’s decision to negotiate with Israel, rejecting criticism over the move and saying opponents’ arguments “do not deserve a response”.
Speaking to a Christian political bloc led by Samir Geagea, Aoun said he would not reverse his decision to pursue negotiations with Israel, while stressing that the process would continue with explanations provided to the Lebanese public.
“I assure you that I will not back down from the decision to negotiate that I have taken,” Aoun said, adding that Lebanon would maintain its sovereignty throughout the process.
The framework agreement with Israel, which was co-signed by the United States and reached last month, has triggered criticism inside Lebanon. Opponents argue that the deal could limit Lebanon’s ability to respond if Israel fails to meet its commitments.
