In their monthly statement following a meeting chaired by Patriarch Bechara Boutros Rahi, the Maronite bishops called on all Lebanese to capitalize on current Arab and international momentum to reclaim full sovereignty and rally around state institutions, in support of Lebanon’s reform ambitions.

They welcomed the international consensus to extend the UNIFIL mandate, expressing hope that this will be the final renewal and a step toward bolstering Lebanon through cooperation with its army and security forces.

The bishops saluted the efforts of the Lebanese Armed Forces and extended condolences to the army command over its fallen soldiers. They also voiced hope for well-prepared engagement between Beirut and Damascus on key issues, including border demarcation, security, and the fate of Lebanese detainees in Syrian prisons.