Beirut: The Political Bureau and the Central Council of the Kataeb Party conducted their joint monthly meeting, presided over by Party leader Samy Gemayel, with former President Amine Gemayel attending a portion of the session.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the meeting resulted in a statement from the Political Bureau emphasizing its unwavering support for Lebanese legitimacy and underscoring the urgent need to expedite the implementation of the framework agreement in its entirety. The Bureau condemned ongoing statements by Iranian officials, highlighting Tehran's persistent efforts to align southern Lebanon with its own interests. The statement urged Iran to cease its support for armed militias, enabling the Lebanese State to fully exercise its sovereignty. This would facilitate the Israeli withdrawal, ensure exclusive state control over weapons, enable the return of displaced residents, and initiate reconstruction efforts.
The Bureau also addressed the recent visit of Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani to Beirut, which it viewed as reinforcing the foundational principles governing relations between neighboring states, emphasizing political independence and economic integration. The Bureau believes this approach offers Lebanon and Syria a chance to leverage Arab and international support for reconstruction and development, while enhancing their engagement with the global economy.
Furthermore, the Political Bureau praised the stance of municipalities, mukhtars, and community representatives from the border villages, interpreting it as a definitive response to attempts to undermine the residents and question their national allegiance. It noted that despite facing displacement, attacks, and hardships, the people of the border villages have consistently demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the Lebanese State and its legitimacy. They have firmly rejected any attempts to exploit their circumstances or involve them in projects that conflict with their Lebanese identity and national allegiance.
This sentiment embodies the true spirit of the people of southern Lebanon, who remain deeply connected to their land, reaffirming that the State alone can serve as the unifying entity and protector for all Lebanese citizens.