Al-Rahi in the South: Advocating for Peace

Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi initiated a visit to the conflict-affected southern Lebanon on Thursday, beginning with a prayer at the Our Lady of the Seas Cathedral in Tyre.

Al-Rahi expressed concerns about the ongoing war, noting its potential to spread beyond Gaza. Emphasizing his desire for peace, he mentioned plans to meet with both Muslim and Christian leaders in the city. His intention is to convey a message of solidarity to the people of southern Lebanon, assuring them of his and the church’s support.

During his visit to the cathedral’s fellowship hall, al-Rahi met with various dignitaries, including Members of Parliament Ali Khreis, Michel Moussa, Enaya Ezzeddine, Hassan Ezzeddine, and Hussein Jishi. The meeting also saw the participation of Muslim and Christian religious leaders, as well as representatives from UNIFIL, Hezbollah, and the Amal Movement.

The region has been experiencing heightened tensions since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7, with increased fire exchanges between Lebanon and Israel, primarily involving Israel and Hezbollah, but also Palestinian groups.

Since the conflict’s onset in October, more than 110 people have died on the Lebanese side, predominantly Hezbollah fighters and over a dozen civilians, as reported by AFP. The Israeli side has reported the deaths of six soldiers and three civilians, according to Israeli authorities.