Aoun Marks Bachir Gemayel Anniversary, Vows to Build 'Strong and Just State'

President Joseph Aoun marked the 44th anniversary of the assassination of president-elect Bachir Gemayel, saying Gemayel 'fell to the bullets of treachery before assuming his constitutional duties, ascending as a martyr upon the altar of the nation.' Aoun said Gemayel's 'name remains etched in the hearts and minds of the Lebanese people as a symbol of faith in Lebanon — a land of message, sovereignty and freedom,' and used the commemoration to renew his pledge to build a 'strong and just state,' amid ongoing pressure over Hezbollah's arms and the southern escalation.