Fact Check: Did President Aoun Test Positive For Coronavirus?

Fact Check_ Did President Aoun Test Positive For Coronavirus
Dalati Nohra/Handout via REUTERS

Rumors have been spreading about the Lebanese president’s health, in light of the news of infections raging in the presidential palace.

At least 10 staff members at the presidential palace have tested positive; among them, is reportedly a high-ranking employee.

In addition, President Aoun’s son-in-law/FPM leader Gebran Bassil contracted the virus and was admitted into the hospital for care and observation.

What does that mean for President Aoun?

Claim: President Aoun tested positive and has coronavirus. He could have contracted it from anyone at the presidential palace or his son-in-law.

Verdict: False.

Context: The Presidency’s press office released a statement saying that the rumors going around about the President’s health were “baseless” and that President Aoun is fine and continues his activities and contacts as usual.