The leader of the Lebanese Forces Party Samir Geagea emphasized that Lebanon’s challenges can only be resolved by “restoring full authority to the Lebanese state, enforcing its sovereignty, and implementing international resolutions, particularly UN Resolutions 1701 and 1559.”
Geagea made these comments during a meeting in Maarab on Wednesday with United Nations Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, accompanied by Siana O’Connell and Lina Qaddoumi from the UN’s political affairs office.
He stressed the need to strengthen state institutions, especially the Lebanese Armed Forces, to assert control over “all Lebanese territories.”
On the topic of the presidential elections, Geagea underscored the urgency of electing a new president to revitalize institutions.
He stated, “We don’t need just any president, but one who exercises real authority, makes firm decisions, and has a strategic vision for the country’s future.”
Geagea also expressed concerns about the displacement of Lebanese citizens from various regions, urging that their resettlement be prioritized.
He noted that “around 150,000 Syrian refugees have already returned to Syria, demonstrating the existence of safe areas.”
This, he explained, emphasizes the need for the illegal Syrian refugees in Lebanon to return, particularly as the conflict in Syria has eased.
He urged the UN and UNHCR to “encourage displaced Syrians and their families currently in unsafe areas of Lebanon to return to Syria,” where conditions are more stable.
He also requested that humanitarian aid provided to Syrians in Lebanon be redirected to assist them within Syria.
Earlier that day, Kataeb Party Chief Sami Gemayel also met with Hennis-Plasschaert and reiterated the need for an immediate ceasefire and the implementation of Resolution 1701.
Their discussion focused on Lebanon’s deteriorating security situation and the importance of safeguarding civilians, especially those displaced or still in southern villages.
Gemayel highlighted the role of the international community and the United Nations in ensuring their protection from further attacks.
