Lebanon’s Maronite Archbishop: Israel Wants All of Lebanon
According to the English section of webangah News Agency, citing Mehr News Agency via Al-nashra, Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi, the Maronite Patriarch of Lebanon, emphasized that “we need peace today more than ever.” He described Lebanon as naturally and fundamentally a neutral country. This is not merely his personal wish; neutrality must be confirmed and recognized by the United Nations. Neutrality does not mean being passive but requires playing an active and effective role in dialogue.
Al-Rahi said he will insist on this principle of neutrality in his upcoming message to Pope Leo XIV, as he has previously done in letters sent to late Popes benedict XVI and Francis.
The Maronite Patriarch referred to Israel’s expansionist ambitions, stating: “Israel wants all of Lebanon. Our hope is that the drumbeats of war end so we can pursue diplomacy.”
On disarmament, he clarified: “disarmament is a final decision but cannot be imposed by force. The government must address and follow up on Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon.”
Cardinal Al-Rahi expressed regret over the cancellation of the Lebanese army commander’s trip to Washington, questioning: “Who can we rely on regarding this matter?”
He also stressed the importance of extending the mission mandating international forces in Lebanon.
Addressing Syria, Al-Rahi called on al-Jolani to remove fear from Syrians’ hearts concerning their right to determine their own destiny.
He added: “Despite assurances, Christians continue to emigrate; fear and concerns remain widespread.”
