Dialogue Between Presidents Joseph Aoun and Ahmad Al-Sharar Dismisses Rumors of Armed Activity and Sectarian Division on Syria-Lebanon Border
Beirut, Lebanon — July 5, 2025
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced on Friday that regular coordination is ongoing with Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharar on various important issues. At the same time, he warned against attempts to sow sectarian division across the country, stating that such plots involve “internal enemies” and “foreign interests.”
President Aoun made these remarks during a meeting at the Baabda Palace in eastern Beirut with a delegation from “National Equity,” a coalition of independent journalists and political activists. Salah Salam, editor-in-chief of Al-Liwaa newspaper, spoke on behalf of the delegation.
Sunni Community as a Symbol of Unity
In his speech, Aoun referred to the Sunni community as a “symbol of internal tolerance” and “a key component of Arab and international integration.”
According to a statement from the Presidency, he warned against any provocative campaigns aimed at deepening religious divisions and creating unrest within Lebanon.
Rejection of Border Operation Rumors
Recent media reports have raised concerns over foreign fighters entering Lebanon from Syria and possible armed operations along the border.
In response, Aoun firmly rejected such rumors, asserting that security coordination with Syria is ongoing and there is no truth to claims of border incursions or military operations.
Intelligence Leaks and Military Statements
The Hezbollah-affiliated newspaper Al-Akhbar reported that various Lebanese security agencies had obtained secret intelligence about foreign fighters crossing from Syria.
In response, the Lebanese Army issued a statement on Tuesday confirming continued coordination with Syria and outlining effective measures in place to secure the border.
The army urged media outlets to act responsibly when reporting on border-related issues to prevent the spread of false or exaggerated news that could inflame tensions within the country.
Both the military’s statement and Aoun’s remarks come at a time of rising concern over increasing religious and political divisions in Lebanon, as well as growing activity by regional powers seeking to expand their influence.
