Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called on Sunday for negotiations with Israel to prevent South Lebanon from becoming "like Gaza," as Israel continues its airstrikes and ground offensive, destroying villages across the Lebanese south.

 

In a televised speech, Aoun stated: "It is true that Israel may wish to turn South Lebanon into another Gaza, but it is our duty not to be dragged into that."

 

Responding to critics of his calls for diplomacy, he asked: "Some have questioned the benefit of diplomacy, but I ask, what have we gained from war?" noting that the conflict has resulted in over 1,400 deaths and 4,000 injuries.

 

He added, "Gaza was destroyed and more than 70,000 victims have fallen, only for them to eventually sit down for negotiations (...) Why don't we sit at the negotiating table now and stop these tragedies?" emphasizing that "communications will continue so that we can save the homes that have not yet been destroyed."