Beirut: Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea commemorated the party's fallen martyrs during a memorial Mass held under the patronage of Maronite Patriarch, Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi. Geagea emphasized the importance of a decisive state, rejecting the notion of a "state-within-a-state" that involves Lebanon in external conflicts.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Geagea paid tribute to the party's founder, Bashir Gemayel, acknowledging his foresight despite being assassinated before realizing his vision for a strong Lebanese Republic. This year's commemoration aligns with the 50th anniversary of the Lebanese Forces' founding, a time when various resistance groups united under a single leadership to confront existential threats.

Geagea highlighted the party's history of sacrifice, persecution, and resilience over the past five decades. He reaffirmed the Lebanese Forces' goal of establishing a state capable of decisive action, and noted the party's consistent opposition to entities that threaten Lebanon's sovereignty.

Addressing the current political landscape, Geagea criticized the existence of a parallel state that defends external interests at Lebanon's expense. He warned against the ongoing influence of a "deep state" that diverts resources from the nation.

Geagea outlined the challenges facing Lebanon, including displaced populations, economic instability, and destruction. He called on Hezbollah to dismantle its military and security wings, insisting that the Lebanese state must make firm decisions to address this issue.

He acknowledged some governmental reforms but stressed the need for faster and more effective implementation. Geagea urged Lebanese officials to resolve the Hezbollah issue to ensure meaningful progress in the country's governance.