Lebanon Addresses Syrian Stability with Neighboring Countries

Lebanon’s commitment to regional stability was underscored during a meeting of Syria’s neighboring countries held in Jordan. The meeting included representatives from Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon, focusing on collaborative efforts to address shared challenges and foster a more secure regional environment.

Youssef Raji, the minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, emphasized the critical link between stability in Syria and Lebanon. Raji stated that stability in syria is very crucial for stability in Lebanon and there are common files with Syria that need treatment, including the demarcation of borders, the smuggling of weapons, drugs, and terrorism file.

Raji described Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani’s statements during the meeting as encouraging speech and expressed hope to implement it. The assemblies collectively offered assistance to the Syrian people in rebuilding their country, emphasizing the importance of unity, sovereignty, security, and stability.

Free Patriotic movement Calls for End to Sedition in Syria

gibran Bassil,head of the Free Patriotic Movement,voiced concerns about the ongoing conflict in Syria. bassil took to the “X” platform to express his views, stating: What is the goal of igniting sedition in Syria and what remains of religion if it is indeed a title of killing? Syria is the heart of the Arab civilian East, and preserving its social fabric is the responsibility of the state in it.

Bassil further emphasized the devastating consequences of the conflict, adding, What is happening is a terrible crime that no religion and the responsibility of all countries allow is to stop the bloodbath. Losing a diverse Syria is a loss for multiple Lebanon.

UN Special Coordinator Visits Israel Amid Regional Tensions

Amid ongoing regional tensions, Jenin Hennis-Blaskart, the Special Coordinator of the United Nations in Lebanon, commenced a visit to Israel. The visit aims to facilitate discussions with senior Israeli officials on critical issues pertaining to Lebanon and the broader region.

The primary focus of the visit is to ensure the implementation of the ceasefire understanding and Security Council Resolution 1701, which are vital for maintaining stability along the Lebanese-Israeli border. The resolution, adopted in 2006, calls for a cessation of hostilities and the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces in southern Lebanon, alongside an expanded UNIFIL (United Nations interim Force in Lebanon) mandate.

During the visit, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon saar reportedly told Blaskart that iran is escaping money to Hezbollah. This statement underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics influencing the region and the ongoing concerns about external support for non-state actors.

Hezbollah’s Position on recent Attacks

A member of the “Al-Wafa Resistance” bloc, MP hussein Jashi, addressed the issue of attacks and the response from Hezbollah. Jashi stated that when the resistance dose not respond to the attacks,this is not weak,but rather from our commitment to what was agreed upon first,and in the context of giving an possibility to the Lebanese state and political and security institutions to assume their responsibility with the two countries that take into account the agreement and with the international community and implement international resolutions.

jashi further emphasized the importance of giving opportunities for resolution, adding, We are dealing with the door to give opportunities and bear everyone for their responsibilities, but our people, our people and our resistance will not be silent long for what is happening.

Lebanese Forces Respond to Hezbollah Criticism

The media department of the “Lebanese Forces” party issued a statement responding to criticism from Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, Sheikh Naim Qassem, directed at Foreign Minister Youssef Raji.The statement highlighted the ongoing tensions between different political factions in Lebanon and their differing visions for the country’s future.

The statement asserted that Qassem insists to emphasize in every view that his special external project that destroyed Lebanon is progressing on the state project,and it is unfortunate that this team did not learn and did not have,and also signing the ceasefire agreement that requires the dismantling of its military intention Dismantling it since the beginning of the nine years of the last century.

The Lebanese Forces further stated, We saw sheikh Naim, yesterday, with a view of pouring all his anger in the minister of Foreign Affairs of Lebanon, an atmosphere for no reason except because he said the truth that he heard and heard each of the decision capitals and that it is that there is no reconstruction except in the shadow of a state that is held alone with the decision The Lebanese, while the international community does not want to be built to destroy the party again, and along with the fact that the interests of the Supreme Lebanese call for the establishment of an actual state after the experiences of departing from the country that cost the Lebanese a lot, and the state is not for a team of the Lebanese, but for the entire lebanese people.

Prime Minister Salam Engages in Diplomatic Meetings

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has been actively engaged in diplomatic meetings, receiving Canada’s Ambassador to Lebanon, stephanie Mokolm, to discuss bilateral relations and developmental projects. discussions also included aid provided to the Lebanese army and internal security forces, highlighting the ongoing international support for Lebanon’s stability.

Salam also met with the Brazilian ambassador to Lebanon, Tizizio Costa, who conveyed congratulations from Brazilian President Lula da Silva. During the meeting, Salam called on Brazil to contribute to rehabilitating the Rashid Karami International Exhibition in Tripoli, which is listed on the World Heritage List, which was designed by the Brazilian architect oscar Nimer, in a way that benefits the development, cultural, economic and environmental benefit on the city of tripoli and the north in general.

Additionally, Salam met with MP Muhammad Suleiman, a member of the “National Moderation” bloc, who explained that he discussed with President Salam the general situation, and demands for the Akkar region, especially the rehabilitation of the legitimate crossings with Syria to organize the movement of entry and exit of goods and individuals according to the rules.

Preparations Underway for Municipal Elections

Minister of Interior Ahmed Al-Hajjar addressed the preparations for upcoming municipal elections during the annual breakfast of social welfare institutions – Islamic Orphans. Al-Hajjar affirmed that the Lebanese state is persistent to expel the Israeli enemy from the southern hills and rebuild what the aggression demolished, and we will all in a solidarity government

Lebanon’s Tightrope Walk: Navigating Regional Instability, Border Security, and the shadow of Syria

Is Lebanon on the brink of another major crisis, caught between internal strife and regional power plays?

Interview with Dr. Elias Khoury, Expert in Lebanese Politics and Regional Security

Editor: Dr. Khoury, Lebanon’s geopolitical position is incredibly precarious.With tensions flaring between israel and Hezbollah, ongoing instability in Syria, and internal political divisions, how would you characterize Lebanon’s current state?

Dr. Khoury: lebanon is indeed navigating a complex and volatile landscape.The country is grappling with multiple interconnected challenges: the lingering consequences of the Syrian conflict, the persistent threat of cross-border violence, and deep-seated internal political fractures, heavily influenced by regional rivalries.These interconnected pressures create a fragile ecosystem making sustainable stability incredibly tough to achieve. Understanding Lebanon’s challenges requires appreciating its intricate web of internal and external actors and thier often conflicting interests.

Editor: The recent Jordan meeting involving neighboring countries addressing Syrian stability seems crucial. How significant is this regional cooperation to lebanon’s security and stability?

Dr. Khoury: the Jordan meeting represents a potential—though still fragile—shift towards regional cooperation. For Lebanon, this signifies an chance for collaborative efforts in addressing shared security concerns.specifically, improved cooperation on border security, tackling cross-border smuggling (weapons, drugs, and the movement of militants), and collaborating on reconstruction efforts in Syria are directly relevant to Lebanon’s long-term stability. However, success hinges on genuine commitment from all participants, overcoming deep-seated mutual distrust and past grievances.

Editor: Gibran Bassil’s concerns about sedition in Syria highlight a deeper fear. What are the implications for lebanon if the Syrian conflict further escalates or destabilizes?

Dr. Khoury: An escalation of the Syrian conflict presents a catastrophic scenario for Lebanon. the spillover effects—refugee flows, increased instability along the border, and the potential resurgence of extremist groups—would overwhelm lebanon’s already strained resources and infrastructure. The profound humanitarian and economic consequences would be devastating, perhaps pushing Lebanon into a deeper state of crisis. Mr. Bassil’s comments rightly highlight the interconnectedness of both countries’ stability. A stable Syria is essential for a stable Lebanon.

Editor: The UN Special Coordinator’s visit to Israel amidst these tensions is noteworthy. What role does the international community have in mediating these regional conflicts and supporting Lebanon?

dr. Khoury: The international community, especially through the UN, has a vital role to play in de-escalation and conflict resolution. The implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, including maintaining the ceasefire and supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), is paramount. The UN can also facilitate dialog between conflicting parties, promote humanitarian assistance, and help build sustainable peace initiatives. International support for Lebanon’s fragile economy and institutions is also critical for bolstering stability. However, the effectiveness of international intervention is often hampered by conflicting national interests and the complexities of regional dynamics.

Editor: Hezbollah’s position,emphasizing patience and allowing the Lebanese state to assume responsibility,is crucial in this context. how can Lebanon effectively manage its relationship with Hezbollah while navigating regional instability?

Dr. Khoury: Managing Lebanon’s relationship with Hezbollah requires a delicate balancing act. The group’s considerable influence within Lebanon necessitates engagement, but this should be firmly rooted in upholding Lebanon’s sovereignty and adherence to international norms and law. Clearly defined rules of engagement, fostering transparency and accountability, and prioritizing the Lebanese state’s authority are key.Failure to address Hezbollah’s influence effectively can impede long-term stability.

Editor: The Lebanese Forces’ response to Hezbollah’s criticism reveals the deep divisions within Lebanon’s political landscape. How can Lebanon overcome these deep political schisms and build national unity?

Dr. Khoury: Reconciling Lebanon’s deeply fractured political landscape requires a multifaceted approach: promoting inclusive dialogue, fostering political compromise, strengthening democratic institutions, and adopting a vision for national unity that transcends sectarian divisions. Addressing economic grievances, ensuring fair depiction across communities, and promoting institutional reforms are crucial steps towards healing the deep wounds of Lebanon’s political divisions. This process requires leadership,compromise,and a commitment from all stakeholders. This is a long-term effort requiring trust-building and a commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Editor: what are the key challenges and opportunities for Lebanon in navigating this complex regional situation?

Dr. Khoury: Lebanon faces enormous challenges: economic collapse, political instability, sectarian tensions, and regional insecurity.However,there are opportunities for change if the country addresses critical issues: serious economic reform,political reconciliation,strengthened institutions,improved governance,and collaboration with regional actors focused on mutual security and stability. Active engagement with the international community, robust support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, and a genuine commitment to democratic principles offer a path towards a more secure and prosperous future. This is a critical juncture for Lebanon; the choices made today will determine the country’s trajectory for years to come.

Call to Action: What are your thoughts on Lebanon’s path forward? Share your insights and opinions in the comments below and join the conversation on social media using #LebanonStability #regionalsecurity #MiddleEastPolitics.