Lebanese president says risk of renewed war with Israel has receded

BEIRUT, Dec. 25 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said on Thursday the risk of a renewed war with Israel has receded due to ongoing diplomatic efforts and a de-escalation mechanism, despite continued Israeli attacks in parts of the country.

"I can tell you that the specter of war has passed," Aoun told journalists after a Christmas visit to Bkerke in central Lebanon, adding that negotiations have helped push back Israeli warnings of a possible resumption of hostilities after the New Year.

Aoun said the security situation in southern Lebanon remains fragile, with residents still unable to return to their homes, Lebanese detainees held in Israeli prisons, and recent Israeli strikes reported in southern areas and the Bekaa Valley.

He noted that Lebanon has maintained contacts with influential countries, including the United States, the European Union, and Arab states, working in parallel with the mechanism committee tasked with preventing escalation and stabilizing the situation along the border.

According to Aoun, while talks often involve heightened demands, diplomatic engagement is moving toward "positive conclusions." He stressed that Lebanon remains committed to safeguarding stability and preventing a return to war while continuing efforts to strengthen state institutions and ensure security nationwide. ■