The National Defense and Interior and Municipalities Committee held a session today, Tuesday, chaired by MP Jihad Samad, to discuss matters concerning military and security institutions. Samad praised the "exceptional effort exerted by military and security forces" and stated, "Without security, we cannot reach the Parliament, and no one will be able to move from their home. We cannot compromise on security and safety. The state of the country does not allow us to reach a point where security is threatened. We need to take all necessary measures to ensure the minimum continuity of the military institution and other security agencies in performing their duties."
He added, "We listened to the leaders of security and military agencies regarding their essential needs for fuel, medical supplies, food, and maintenance, and the necessity of securing them. Thus, it was agreed that we are preparing an urgent draft law after determining the necessary amounts to ensure the continuity of these institutions' operations, with the aim of holding an extraordinary session promptly to discuss this situation, as we do not want to gamble with the safety and security of citizens and the Lebanese community. We found initial acceptance from all the main blocs and independent MPs, and hopefully, this matter will be translated into an urgent draft law. We will ask the President of the Parliament, after receiving approval from all parliamentary blocs, to schedule a general session to approve the additional credit, as the situation is urgent and necessary to maintain our collective security. This security does not pertain to any single political team or entity; it is a necessity and need for every Lebanese citizen, regardless of their political affiliation. We will soon determine the amount of this additional credit required."
Regarding funding sources, MP Samad stated, "We consulted with the Minister of Finance, who promised to secure the necessary funds by adjusting the customs dollar rate and improving revenues. We called for the activation of property registry fees; people want to buy without putting their money in banks. People no longer trust banks; they are purchasing through agencies at notaries, and they are ready to register properties in their names once the real estate offices reopen. We demanded the revitalization of the Vehicle and Mechanic services; all of these are additional revenues."
He added, "State revenues improved following the adjustment of the customs rate; there is a possibility of securing these appropriations, which is a demand of all Lebanese. We must work and cooperate to approve this proposal after obtaining the approval of the main blocs, independent MPs, and reformist MPs; everyone is concerned with this matter."
