The head of the Lebanese Forces Party, Samir Geagea, and his wife, MP Strida Geagea, hosted an iftar in Maarab, attended by various dignitaries including the Grand Mufti of the Lebanese Republic Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian, representatives from various countries, and Lebanese politicians and religious figures.
In her opening speech, member of the Sovereign Media Front, Samia Khaddaj, expressed that Christian and Muslim fasting coincides once again, emphasizing the shared values of coexistence and balanced living reflected in Maarab amidst the surrounding dangers.
Geagea remarked that the declared aim of the Gaza war is to eliminate Hamas, yet the underlying goal is to displace the residents of Gaza. He noted that the positive aspect, despite the ongoing horrors, is the global sympathy for the humanitarian situation in Gaza, including from the United States, rejecting any form of displacement regardless of the reasoning.
He highlighted that there is a consensus among Arab, European, and American states that the Gaza war should be the last concerning the Palestinian cause, urging for a permanent solution through a two-state solution. However, he criticized some factions for attempting to exploit the Palestinian issue by calling for "unity of fronts," questioning why there has not been a serious mobilization at the fronts for the sake of Gaza.
Geagea questioned the decision-makers regarding the war and pointed out that if matters remain as they are, Lebanon could face 350 to 400 casualties, with substantial damage and economic losses. He asserted that “those who made the decision to involve Lebanon must bear the responsibility and consequences.”
He also stressed that the government shares responsibility for not protecting the country from becoming a battleground for various interests. He pointed to the weakness in the presidential vacancy and its impacts, citing the Lebanese Constitution's clear stipulation regarding the election of a new president.
Geagea underscored that the opposition desires a president who will rebuild the state and secure its sovereignty, while the resistance wants a president who will maintain the status quo, allowing Hezbollah to continue its control over war and peace decisions.
He mentioned that the ongoing dialogue called for by the resistance should not be seen as genuine, as it generally aims to impose their candidate without real discussion. He asserted that the Lebanese Forces will continue to engage in legitimate dialogue and welcomed initiatives for serious discussions.
In conclusion, he affirmed the need for the government to implement Security Council Resolution 1701 immediately, ensuring that the Lebanese Army secures the southern border, with support from the Arab world and globally. Regarding the presidential election, he emphasized that a single solution exists: to summon the Speaker of the House to convene an open session for continuous voting until a president is elected.
