The International Support Group for Lebanon issued a statement expressing deep concern over the implications of the ongoing presidential vacancy. In its statement, it urged political leaders and members of parliament to assume their responsibilities, act in accordance with the constitution, and respect the Taif Agreement by electing a new president without further delay.
The group stated that "the current situation is unsustainable. It paralyzes the state at all levels and severely limits its ability to respond to pressing social, economic, financial, security, and humanitarian challenges, while undermining public trust in state institutions as crises escalate." It added, "After eleven months since Lebanon reached a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund, no financial program has yet been established. Accelerating the adoption of the necessary laws to restore confidence in the banking sector and unify exchange rates is vital to halt social and economic deterioration."
The group recalled the postponement of municipal elections for a year until May 2023, welcoming the ongoing preparations to ensure that these elections are held on time. It emphasized, "Renewing the popular mandate for municipal bodies, which are on the front lines of serving Lebanese citizens, is important to ensure the functioning of state institutions and to enhance trust in local governance."
The International Support Group strongly condemned the armed attack on a UNIFIL patrol in December 2022, which resulted in the death of one of its members in Al-Aqbiya, and expects the perpetrators to be held accountable and brought to justice promptly.
It stated, "Ensuring the proper functioning of the judiciary is essential for restoring the credibility of Lebanese state institutions, upholding the rule of law, enforcing accountability, and ending impunity. In this context, the International Support Group notes with concern the lack of progress in the judicial process related to the Beirut port explosion on August 4, 2020."
The group reaffirmed its commitment to standing by Lebanon and its people.
