Bassil criticizes EU, Mikati over €1 billion aid

Jebran Bassil, the leader of the Free Patriotic Movement, on Saturday criticized the European Commission, claiming it is actively trying to prevent Syrian migration to Europe while simultaneously attempting to replace the Lebanese population with Syrian refugees, thereby altering the national identity.

This accusation followed a declaration by EU chief Ursula von der Leyen during her visit to Lebanon, in which she announced a $1 billion aid package aimed at addressing the country’s severe crises and managing illegal migration.

Of this package, 736 million euros are designated to aid Syrian refugees and other vulnerable groups within Lebanon. An additional 200 million euros are allocated to enhance the Lebanese security forces’ capabilities in border and migration control, as detailed by the Cypriot government.

Bassil expressed strong sentiments regarding the sovereignty and dignity of Lebanon and its people. He emphasized that Lebanon is not a commodity to be bought or sold, whether through temporary or permanent migration schemes. He accused some officials of succumbing to foreign influence but asserted that the Lebanese land and people could not be subjugated.

Highlighting a statement from caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati about a seasonal migration agreement with the EU, Bassil questioned the details and transparency of this plan. He asked how the 1 billion euros would be distributed and whether the agreement includes provisions for readmitting displaced Syrians from Cyprus and others who might arrive from Palestine and Syria.

Bassil argued that financial aid is not the solution Lebanon needs but rather a decisive political action to facilitate the return of displaced Syrians to their home country. He pointed out the availability of vast lands in Syria that could accommodate them and suggested that proper financial support for this cause might encourage their return.