Doha: HE President of the Republic of Lebanon General Joseph Aoun emphasized that the recent Israeli aggression against the State of Qatar was not merely an attack on individuals, but a direct assault on the fundamental principles of mediation and dialogue.
According to Qatar News Agency, President Aoun addressed the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit, articulating that the intent behind the attack was to undermine negotiation itself. He stated that Qatar was targeted specifically due to its role as a significant proponent of dialogue and peace. The President expressed that Qatar is more than just a nation; it is a symbol of mediation and encounter, values that the aggression aimed to suppress.
President Aoun stressed that Qatar holds a pivotal place in the region, and the attack was both intentional and blatant. He called for a shift from mere condemnation to active measures, asserting that the situation post-aggression is now indisputably clear. He drew attention to the ongoing consequences of Israeli aggression in the region, referencing the violence in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon.
The Lebanese President underscored the necessity of a unified Arab stance before the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in New York. He posed a critical question regarding Israel's willingness to achieve a just and lasting peace, invoking the Arab Peace Initiative as a foundation for negotiations if Israel is indeed sincere in its peace efforts.
Highlighting international movements, President Aoun pointed out the UN General Assembly's recent overwhelming support for the "New York Declaration," which acknowledges the State of Palestine. He credited the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France for their roles in advancing these efforts, which pave the way for a two-state solution.
In his concluding remarks, President Aoun called for immediate dialogue under the United Nations' auspices, urging that clarity be sought regarding Israel's position on peace. He stressed that understanding Israel's stance, whether affirmative or negative, would allow the Arab world to strategize effectively and potentially end longstanding disappointments.