Nicosia, April 24 (QNA) - Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Lebanon refuses to be used as a bargaining chip in regional conflicts, stressing that it negotiates solely to protect its sovereignty and national interests within a US-backed diplomatic track supported by the EU and Arab states, aimed at ending Israeli attacks and securing full withdrawal to internationally recognized borders.

Addressing an informal EU leaders' meeting in Cyprus, Aoun underscored Lebanon's commitment to de-escalation and diplomacy as the only path to lasting stability, warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis driven by ongoing Israeli strikes.

He said more than one million Lebanese have been displaced, with infrastructure heavily damaged, thousands of raids recorded, over 10,000 casualties, and tens of thousands of homes destroyed.

He added that hosting around one million Syrian refugees is placing severe strain on services, calling for intensified international efforts to ensure their safe and dignified return.

Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to economic reform and stronger EU partnership, urging an international reconstruction conference, increased humanitarian funding, and sustained support for the Lebanese army as a pillar of stability.

He concluded that Lebanon remains a key partner in regional stability, energy security, and counterterrorism, seeking deeper international cooperation to support recovery and long-term stability. (QNA)