The notion that the Assad regime ever protected Syrian Christians – and previously, the Christians of Lebanon – is entirely unfounded. Equally baseless is the notion that Ahmad al-Sharaa, regardless of his background and representation, serves as a guarantee for the Christians of Syria and Lebanon.
What is clear, however, is that Lebanese Christians now have a crucial opportunity to strengthen their presence and reclaim their lost role in Lebanon – not through Gebran Bassil's approach of “defending Christians' rights,” but by taking a series of fundamental steps.
The essential starting point is the election of a president who embodies Christian integrity – one who refuses to compromise their rights or sacrifice them for personal gain. A president who believes in a strong state, since the stronger the state, the more resilient Christians become. Conversely, the weaker the state, the more vulnerable the Christian community.
What is needed is a strong state that curbs illegal economic activity, one that enforces building regulations, and one that collects taxes.
The true reclaiming of Christians' rights starts with restoring the strength of the state. This opportunity is now within reach, particularly with the diminishing influence of Hezbollah, which had long hindered the rise of a strong state. However, this can only be realized if leaders, political parties and the Church seize the moment, setting aside both major and minor disagreements, especially personal interests and rivalries.
The true reclaiming of Christians' rights lies in strengthening the role of the army, both south and north of the Litani River, as well as along the borders. The military institution has made exceptional efforts this year on multiple fronts, with the army commander embodying the model that should be replicated in other areas to ensure a genuinely strong state.
Christians do not need a system to protect them, nor do they need leaders. What they need is a just, strong and fair state – one that does not elevate them above others nor allow anyone to impose power over them.
This state can become a reality if we choose the right president and, together with Muslims, embrace the belief that the Lebanese state is our refuge. We must work to build it together, rather than compete for control or benefits. We must also recognize that neutrality is our salvation, instead of turning our country into a battleground for one axis or another, or a tool for promoting regional influence once more.
2025 can and must be the year of Christians in Lebanon. But this is only achievable under one condition: first and foremost, it must be the year of the state.
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