Member of the "Loyalty to the Resistance" bloc, MP Ali Fayad, indicated that "throughout all the relationship with Bkerke, Hezbollah has been keen on maintaining a relationship and mutual respect with the patriarchate; there are open channels and ongoing dialogue." In an interview with "Al-Jadeed" channel, he mentioned the statement by Maronite Patriarch Becharra al-Rahi regarding what he referred to as "terrorist acts" from the south, stating that "Father Abu Kassem took a positive step in the right direction, and what MP Farid Khazen did was well perceived by us. However, in our opinion, the matter requires additional steps, and it would be better if Patriarch Al-Rahi clarifies the issue."
Fayad revealed that "Hezbollah sent a message to Bkerke indicating that the resistance is very upset with the stance that was issued, and what occurred hurt us deeply. The term 'terrorism' is a language of conflict and confrontation, not a language of political disagreement." He pointed out that "Hezbollah recognizes the unique position of Bkerke and its role, and we want to keep the channels of dialogue open. What happened needs to be contained and addressed; the steps taken are positive but should be complemented with more."
He added, "Even if there is no Gaza, we are fighting an enemy that still occupies our lands, and we confront him, thus we are searching for the opportune moment to continue operations against him—this is the right of the resistance."
