Al-Rahi States Southern Residents Oppose a Devastating Conflict

Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi recently reaffirmed his support for the inhabitants of Lebanon’s south, a region recently affected by clashes. During a visit there, al-Rahi emphasized his commitment to their various needs, primarily voicing a shared sentiment against war. He conveyed to the residents that they collectively reject a war that would destroy their homes, harm their children, and cause displacement.

Al-Rahi stressed that true bravery does not lie in starting wars with deadly weapons, which lack compassion and reason. Instead, he argued, real courage is found in the pursuit of peace. He contrasted the wasteful nature of war, which consumes vast resources without benefit, with the nurturing aspect of peace, capable of feeding countless hungry people. According to al-Rahi, war often originates from the arrogance and selfish interests of rulers, whereas peace is an extension of divine compassion.

This statement comes in the context of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict that began on October 7, which has led to increased hostilities along the Lebanon-Israel border, predominantly involving the Israeli army and Hezbollah. This escalation has heightened concerns about the possibility of a wider conflict.

Since the beginning of this conflict in October, over 120 individuals have died on the Lebanese side, mainly consisting of Hezbollah fighters and also including more than a dozen civilians, as reported by an AFP tally.