Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, during his visit to Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, expressed his concerns regarding Lebanon’s ongoing social, economic, and security issues.
In statements released after the meeting by the National News Agency of Lebanon, Mikati highlighted the government’s plans to address these challenges within a strong and capable state framework.
Mikati condemned the recent murder of Pascal Sliman, particularly as it coincided with the anniversary of the start of Lebanon’s painful civil war on April 13.
He urged the younger generation, which did not witness the events of April 13, to learn from the past and called on social media managers to control the dissemination of content that could inflame tensions.
Responding to questions about potential threats to Lebanon should it engage in Iran’s response to Israel, Mikati stated, “There are no direct threats, but the threats being made are part of a preemptive war, as surprise is a critical element in warfare and there are no surprises left.
I do not know if a strike will happen, but the element of surprise for any such strike no longer exists. Thus, what is being said is more about preemptive deterrence.”
Regarding the Syrian refugee crisis, Mikati emphasized that “Lebanon will address this crisis through communication,” noting that “the solution begins by deeming most areas in Syria as safe for the repatriation of Syrians who came to Lebanon as refugees.”
He added that it is important to distinguish between Syrians who are contributing to Lebanon’s economy and those who are not.
“Once there are recognized safe zones in Syria and international acknowledgment of this, most Syrians in Lebanon who are not engaged in any work or are not here under legal cover will be repatriated.
Those who have residency and work permits and are working within the law, we respect them just as we respect any other Arab citizen.”
Mikati concluded by stating that “nothing currently unites Lebanese more than the issue of refugees, and through international contacts, we are beginning what is necessary in this matter.”
