The Lebanese Forces and the Kataeb Party have overcome political disagreements and are moving towards convergence and unification. It seems that the cooperation between the deputies and officials of both teams today aims at a specific issue related to the presidential election, uniting to face the candidate of the March 8 Coalition. For both parties, the specifications of the president are summarized as: sovereignty first and reform second. The two parties are eagerly awaiting the departure of President Michel Aoun from the palace, having opposed him politically throughout his term. Aoun's departure has removed the conflict between them due to the current political necessity. Beyond the symbolism of this detail, what both teams agree on is the actions of the Free Patriotic Movement leader, Gebran Bassil, whom they directly hold accountable for the country’s plight as a result of the "strong mandate." The close circle surrounding both teams does not hide their fear of the constitutional "heresies" being prepared, and consequently, they are preparing for confrontation.
In any case, what was striking was the presence of Kataeb representatives, MPs Salim al-Sayegh and Nadim Gemayel, at the mass for the martyrs of the Lebanese resistance in Maarab last Sunday, indicating that relations between the two teams are moving towards closer rapprochement. The "Maarab atmosphere" produces positivity that might lay the groundwork for a deep alliance in this critical upcoming phase.
The major question remains: Will the other opposition forces respond to Geagea's repeated calls for unity? So far, it seems that the "Change MPs" refuse to align with Geagea, even if it comes at the cost of allowing a president affiliated with Hezbollah to take office. Presently, what the Lebanese Forces and Kataeb seek is to gather 65 to 66 opposing deputies, including Sunni MPs, Change MPs, and others who share the same objectives. If efforts to unify their stance fail, the option of obstructing the quorum for the electoral session will be seemingly on the table.
Moreover, due to the country's significant crisis, intersecting information suggests that a meeting will bring together Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea and Kataeb leader Sami Gemayel, which may happen soon as circumstances have matured. Insiders assert that the direct goal of this meeting is to resume relations between Sayfiyé and Maarab.
