Lebanon’s Christian factions celebrated the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, marking it as a significant opportunity for reclaiming sovereignty. Dr. Samir Geagea of the Lebanese Forces Party highlighted the importance of unity and addressing Hezbollah’s influence. The event was seen as a catalyst for rebuilding Lebanon as a fully sovereign state, free of foreign dominance.
Following the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, celebrations broke out across various regions in Lebanon, particularly among Christian factions. Public gatherings filled Lebanese squares, as citizens set off fireworks to mark this significant political change. At border crossings, prominent symbols of the Baath Party were swiftly dismantled, signaling a newfound hope for many locals. Dr. Samir Geagea, leader of the Lebanese Forces Party, convened party members to honor this moment, describing Assad’s fall as a necessary respite for national sovereignty.
Dr. Geagea has been a longstanding opponent of Syrian influence in Lebanon, a sentiment rooted in the party’s history and personal experiences of its leadership. He emphasized the need to address the aftermath of Assad’s regime and its negative impact on Lebanon, where sovereignty was undermined, and Iranian influence expanded. During a press conference, he referred to the occasion as “the day of Bachir Gemayel,” celebrating his predecessor’s legacy and the desire for justice and freedom for both Lebanon and Syria.
Concerns were voiced regarding the implications of Assad’s downfall for Hezbollah, the group’s ally. As Hezbollah has faced significant challenges, including setbacks in its conflict with Israel and a recent withdrawal from Syria, Geagea called for the group to disarm and hand over its arms to the Lebanese army to facilitate the establishment of a strong, unified state. This call for unity aims to address Lebanon’s ongoing challenges and pave the way for reconstruction and independence.
The departure of Assad’s regime represents a pivotal moment for Lebanon, particularly for Christian and Sunni-majority neighborhoods that perceive a chance to regain independence from external influences. Dr. Geagea’s statements reflect aspirations for a cohesive Lebanese state, urging leaders and citizens alike to collaborate toward building a brighter future for their nation. He concluded with a hopeful vision, stating, “This is the beginning of building a true state in Lebanon.”
The article discusses significant political changes in Lebanon following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria. For many Lebanese, especially within Christian factions, this event has generated a sense of liberation and the potential for reclaiming sovereignty. The Lebanese Forces Party, led by Dr. Samir Geagea, has historically opposed Syrian control over Lebanon, a stance deeply rooted in the legacy of the Lebanese Civil War and its aftermath. Geagea’s leadership and fervent calls for a fully sovereign Lebanese state resonate with broader aspirations within the nation amid current geopolitical dynamics.
The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime has ignited celebrations across Lebanon, particularly among Christian factions longing for sovereignty and independence. Dr. Samir Geagea has called for unity and responsibility in rebuilding the Lebanese state, emphasizing the need to disarm Hezbollah and foster a national identity free from foreign influence. As Lebanese citizens look forward to what they hope will be a more sovereign future, this moment stands as a critical juncture in their national narrative.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
