NNA - The Kataeb Party's Political Bureau convened its weekly meeting, chaired by party leader Samy Gemayel. After reviewing recent developments and discussing alarming reports about a potential war, the Bureau issued the following statement:

1- The government's rush to cover the exorbitant costs of the displacement of tens of thousands of residents from the south and its explicit admission that it is not receiving the required international response for the large-scale potential losses raises an obvious question: Would it not have been more prudent for this government to take charge and prevent Lebanon from slipping into a senseless war, rather than lamenting and pleading with both the East and the West?

The main responsibility for the current situation rests primarily with Hezbollah, and with the government coalition that has yielded to its pressures, relinquished its decision-making authority, and consented to being a front for an armed militia. This militia prides itself on devising and implementing strategies that serve its interests and those of Iran, steering Lebanon and its people toward an uncertain future.

In this context, the Kataeb Party affirms that displaced individuals from across Lebanon are fellow citizens and are welcome in all regions—a fact that does not require boasting or favors.

It rejects the transformation of all Lebanese areas into human shields, conflict zones, and missile platforms for a war that is opposed by the majority of Lebanese. This situation demands serious and urgent measures to prevent conflicts similar to those occurring in certain regions.

It also asserts that if the government had heeded the opposition's call to declare a state of emergency, there would have been a clear, multi-faceted plan addressing internal displacement and handling it without falling into the current state of confusion.

2- Once again, the tourism sector has suffered another severe setback during its peak season, with unprecedented losses amounting to billions. No organization will be compensating the Lebanese businesses and institutions that were already struggling under immense pressure. These institutions are essential to Lebanon’s economic vitality, providing crucial support and resilience. It is incumbent upon the government to address these losses and develop strategies to compensate the thousands of families who have lost their only source of income.

3- The risks surrounding the airport and the roads leading to it, combined with the decline in air traffic, have confined both Lebanese residents and visitors to precarious conditions. Hence, it is essential to develop airports and ports that can offer a vital lifeline, enabling Lebanese people to sustain their connections with the world and ensure their safety and stability.

4- The central government's focus on addressing its own shortcomings and its failure to respond to even the most basic needs of the Lebanese people highlight the urgent need for decentralized governance. Lebanon should be governed through elected local councils that can address the essential needs of different regions during these critical times. -- Kataeb.org

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