Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rahi voiced confidence as to his visit to the Holy Land with high Pontiff, since his visit is said to be purely pastoral and spiritual.” Jerusalem is for us all,” he said.

Al-Rahi called, during an interview to al-Hayat, for “finding a solution to Lebanese still residing in Israel dossier since the liberation of the south,” deeming it unfair for their homeland to leave them where they are, pointing out that “what is happening in Lebanon, is the direct outcome of the Sunni-Shiite conflict in the area,” linking the presidential elections to an Iranian – Saudi agreement.

Change and Reform movement was said to have suggested withdrawing from the cabinet, a proposal rebutted by both Hezbollah and Marada.