Aoun: Specter of war has moved away

President Joseph Aoun announced Thursday that the Lebanese state will continue with its arms monopolization plan.

"The decision has been taken while implementation depends on the circumstances," Aoun told reporters in Bkirki after taking part in Christmas Day Mass. He was answering a question about the removal of Hezbollah's arms north of the Litani River.

Asked about the Israeli reports about the renewal of war after the holidays, Aoun said: "Our diplomatic contacts for casting out the specter of war have not stopped and I can tell you that the specter of war has moved away. Anyhow, in negotiations, each party wants to raise its ceiling, but I'm optimistic, and God willing things are headed to positive conclusions."