President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, after a closed-door meeting with Patriarch Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi in Bkerke on the occasion of Easter, stressed that the Lebanese people have been waiting for years for "the resurrection of Lebanon." Aoun clarified that the priority, amidst the destruction and displacement, remains the preservation of civil peace, which he described as a "red line," warning that any infringement upon it constitutes a service to Israel. He pointed out that "the era of the 75 [years] is over and circumstances have changed," noting that some media outlets are playing a destructive role, while affirming the commitment to freedom of expression, provided it is responsible. He affirmed that the security agencies are ready, stressing that the Lebanese people are "tired of wars," adding: "A thousand enemies outside the house are better than one enemy inside the house," in reference to the rejection of internal strife. Regarding the political track, Aoun clarified that negotiation is "not a concession" and that diplomacy is "not surrender," asking: "What do I get from your war?" while pointing to the continuation of communications to stop the killing, destruction, and wounds. The President extended his condolences to the martyrs and his wishes for the recovery of the wounded, and thanked UNIFIL for supporting the steadfast Lebanese in their land. He also expressed his regret over the criticism directed at the army and security forces, asking its critics: "What have you done for the army?" stressing that the army works in accordance with the national interest and that "without the army, we would not be in Bkerke today." He noted that his relationship with Speaker of the Parliament Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is excellent, affirming that everyone is doing their duty, and pointing out that no answer has been received yet regarding the negotiations. Aoun revealed that he met with the Iranian President and the Iranian Foreign Minister, and that the discussion centered on non-interference in the affairs of others, considering that the "Iranian ambassador" in Lebanon is "not an ambassador" for not having presented his credentials, and that he is present at the embassy "without status or function." In conclusion, he strongly condemned the Israeli attacks on civilians, praised the resilience of the residents of the South, and affirmed working through communications to alleviate their suffering and secure the prerequisites for life.