Beirut: The Independence Citadel in Rashaya hosted a commemorative ceremony honoring the martyrs of the Rashaya region, whose names are associated with chapters of the national struggle during the Great Syrian Revolt of 1925. The event was held under the patronage and presence of Progressive Socialist Party leader MP Taymour Jumblatt, with participation from Democratic Gathering bloc member MP Wael Abu Faour, the head of Rashaya municipality, and municipal council members. A large number of political, educational, social, and community figures also attended the ceremony.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the commemoration coincided with the opening of the Rashaya wing at the Independence Museum. This new section highlights chapters of the region's history and figures who shaped Lebanon's national memory. In a brief address, MP Jumblatt emphasized that the Independence Citadel is a symbol of freedom and dignity and an appropriate location to inaugurate the museum dedicated to the fighters of the Great Syrian Revolt. He noted that the museum is a tribute to a memory that must not be forgotten and aims to educate future generations about the importance of freedom achieved through struggle and sacrifice.
Jumblatt paid tribute to Rashaya, Hasbaya, and Wadi al-Taym, urging the people to maintain unity despite differences in opinion or politics. He stated that the region's strength lies in its unity, which should be preserved. MP Abu Faour thanked attendees for joining the museum inauguration, which aims to preserve the shared national heritage and spiritual legacy of the region. He paid tribute to all fallen martyrs and addressed the ongoing Israeli attacks, asserting that they cannot occupy the country's memory or alter its identity.
Abu Faour expressed gratitude to the Alwaleed Philanthropic Foundation, represented by former Minister Leila Solh Hamadeh, for preserving the citadel and its history. He praised the foundation's commitment to Lebanon's collective memory and its contributions across the country. Addressing MP Jumblatt, Abu Faour highlighted the contributions of Leader Walid Jumblatt and Taymour Jumblatt to Rashaya's development. He affirmed that Al-Mukhtara will remain true to its national and Arab role despite attempts to distort identity and history.