Maronite Patriarch, Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros Rahi, said he supports dialogue and negotiations over war, calling for an immediate end to the conflict and urging the adoption of a path that rejects violence.

Rahi stressed the need for all Lebanese, particularly those directly involved, to exit the war and come under the authority of the state as the sole national reference.

Rahi said Israel’s destruction was not surprising but urged Lebanese unity to protect the country under state institutions.

Rahi also expressed deep concern for displaced people and widespread devastation, questioning future reconstruction, while voicing confidence in the state and leadership and praising the army’s role in preserving unity and preventing internal strife.