Al-Rahi Calls on Hezbollah: Declare Immediate End to South War

Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi on Saturday emphasized the crucial and painful situation of southern Lebanon, describing it as the heart of the nation enduring extreme hardships.

In his message for Easter, al-Rahi extended his admiration for the steadfastness of the southern Lebanese, who remain in their communities despite ongoing bombardment, and expressed his condolences to those who have suffered losses, including loved ones, homes, or have been forced to relocate.

He advocated that the south, its land, and its people should not be exploited for external agendas or conflicts, stressing that Lebanon and its southern region belong to all Lebanese. It’s up to the Lebanese people, he said, to collectively determine their country’s future, safety, security, and the causes for which they stand.

Al-Rahi called for unity among the Lebanese in demanding an immediate cessation of the conflict, adhering to United Nations resolutions, and protecting the south from further devastation caused by what he referred to as the “Israeli killing machine.”