Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Rahi affirmed that “the Lebanese are against war and want peace,” adding: “I have confidence that negotiations will lead to peace.”

Patriarch Rahi told mfm radio: “I remain optimistic despite everything, and we hope for the success of the negotiations and for Lebanon to be built on comprehensive peace.”

He continued: “May God bless this new institution, which will carry a message of truth and national unity.”