Maronite Patriarch Bechara Rai on Sunday criticized those seeking to make Lebanon a country "without a state, laws, or a constitution," during a homily at a mass in Mayfouk, Jbeil district, honoring the "martyrs of the Lebanese resistance" from the Lebanese Forces (LF).
"Some want Greater Lebanon [proclaimed in 1920 under the French mandate] to be an empty land, where they can carry out their projects without a state, laws, or a constitution. They treat the country as if it's just a land registry," Rai said, according to the National News Agency (NNA). "There is a difference between recognizing Lebanon and having faith in it." He called for upholding Lebanon's "identity, system, values, and mission," rather than being led by "narrow calculations."
Rai also paid tribute to the LF veterans, who he said were "willing to sacrifice their interests ... to unify perspectives and build the nation." He added: "Without their martyrdom ..., we would not be free or worthy. They fell as martyrs so that we could live ... and they had no allegiance other than to Lebanon."
Since the outbreak of the attrition conflict in southern Lebanon on Oct. 8, 2023, between Hezbollah and Israel, Rai has been unceasingly critical of Hezbollah’s involvement in the near-daily clashes.
"We have all defended Lebanon," Rai said, while condemning "a logic of division." He added: "This strange and unique situation has weakened the Lebanese people's faith in their country. To stop the downfall, Lebanon must elect a president ... and reaffirm Greater Lebanon as the guiding principle."
Mufti Kabalan denounces 'distortion of history'
Jaafarite Mufti Ahmad Kabalan was quick to respond to these remarks, while defending Hezbollah's resistance and accusing LF fighters of collaborating with Israel during the civil war (1975-1990).
Jaafarite Mufti Ahmad Kabalan swiftly responded to Rai’s comments, defending Hezbollah’s resistance and accusing LF fighters of collaborating with Israel during the civil war (1975-1990).
"While some fought alongside the Israeli occupation, the [Islamic] resistance fought to defeat Israel ... and preserve national partnership," Kabalan said, denouncing the "distortion history," without naming Rai.
"Thanks to the [Amal-Hezbollah] alliance, the [Islamic] resistance is dealing significant blows to Israel. This is a historic moment that shows the extent of the resistance's sacrifices. If Benjamin Netanyahu expands the war, they will face destruction. We will prevail," Kabalan added.
He also urged for consensus on the presidential elections, which have been stalled for nearly two years.