Lebanese President Joseph Aoun warned on Sunday that Lebanon cannot afford to be drawn into another conflict, stressing that the country has already paid a heavy price for wars waged both on its territory and across the broader region.

“Lebanon, its leadership, parties, and people, is more aware today than ever before of the steep cost of past wars,” Aoun said in a statement. “We are not willing to pay any more. There is no national interest in doing so, especially since the cost of these wars has been, and will continue to be, far beyond what Lebanon can endure.”

The president’s remarks come as fears mount over the widening scope of hostilities in the Middle East in the wake of the U.S. strikes on Iran’s key nuclear sites. Aoun said the strikes have significantly raised the risk of regional destabilization.

“The bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities increases the likelihood of an expanding conflict, threatening the security and stability of numerous countries and regions,” he said.

Calling for calm, Aoun urged all parties to exercise restraint and to pursue meaningful negotiations to restore peace and prevent further violence.

“There is an urgent need for constructive and serious dialogue aimed at stabilizing the region and avoiding more bloodshed and destruction,” he said.