The President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, stressed after a retreat with Patriarch Mar Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi in Bkerke on the occasion of Easter, that the Lebanese have been waiting for the “resurrection of Lebanon” for years. Aoun explained that the priority in light of the destruction and displacement remains maintaining civil peace, which he described as the “red line,” warning that any violation of it is considered a service to Israel. He pointed out that "the time of the 1970s has ended and circumstances have changed," and pointed out that some media outlets are playing a destructive role, stressing in return that they adhere to freedom of expression, provided that they are responsible. He stressed that the security services are ready, stressing that the Lebanese people are “tired of wars,” adding: “A thousand enemies outside the house and no 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 a surrender,” asking: “What will I get from the war?”, pointing to the continuation of communications to stop the killing, destruction and wounds. The President offered his condolences to the martyrs and wished recovery to the wounded, and thanked UNIFIL forces for supporting the Lebanese steadfast in their land. He also expressed his regret for the criticism directed at the army and security forces, asking their critics a question: “What did you do to 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 pointed out that his relationship with Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is excellent, stressing that everyone is doing their duty, and noting that he has not received any answer yet regarding the negotiations. Aoun revealed that he met with the Iranian President and the Iranian Foreign Minister, and the conversation centered around not interfering in the affairs of others, considering that the “Iranian ambassador” in Lebanon “is not an ambassador” because he did not present his credentials, and he is present in the embassy “without a capacity or a position.” At the conclusion of his speech, he strongly condemned the Israeli attacks on civilians, and saluted the steadfastness of the people of the south, stressing work through communications to alleviate their suffering and secure the necessities of life.