The Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi has dismissed the possibility of a return to civil war in Lebanon, emphasizing that the country has support from major powers and Gulf nations.
During a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the Baabda Palace yesterday, Patriarch al-Rahi noted that “Lebanon is not alone, as it is backed by major countries like the United States, France, and Gulf states; thus, there is no cause for concern.”
He added that there is “no fear of a return to war in Lebanon, and the issue of exclusive weaponry is being addressed by the president with the government.”
Al-Rahi stated that “President Aoun considers the visit of U.S. envoy Thomas Barak to be excellent, and Lebanon has responded to the American proposals, with Barak expected to provide his feedback if there are any remarks.”
He further explained that “President Aoun supported the lifting of sanctions on Syria and the easing of the imposed blockade,” while firmly asserting that “the rumors regarding the annexation of Tripoli are unfounded; it is not on the agenda.”
Al-Rahi pointed out that “the situation for Christians in Syria is challenging, and the recent attack targeting a church raises concerns; Christians seek assurances for their coexistence.”
Meanwhile, two individuals were killed yesterday in an Israeli airstrike targeting a vehicle near Tripoli in northern Lebanon, according to the Ministry of Health. The Israeli military stated that it targeted a prominent member of Hamas. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that the airstrike on a vehicle in the Al-Iruniya area of Tripoli resulted in two fatalities and three other injuries.
The Israeli military confirmed in a statement that it aimed at a key Hamas figure in the Tripoli region of Lebanon. This airstrike marks the first on northern Lebanon since the ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel came into effect in November.