Bassil Urges Unity, Ceasefire, and Presidential Consensus

Jebran Bassil, the head of the Free Patriotic Movement, has urged for unity in facing Israel, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the election of a consensus president in Lebanon.

In an interview with the al-Modon news portal, Bassil emphasized that the top priority should be achieving a ceasefire and preventing any potential re-occupation of southern Lebanon.

Bassil revealed that he has introduced a new initiative, which he has discussed with key international players such as the U.S., Saudi Arabia, France, Egypt, and Qatar. He mentioned that he also held meetings with the British ambassador and the Special Representative of the U.N. Secretary-General.

His plan starts with securing a ceasefire and is followed by the election of a president that all parties can agree on. Bassil added that he is currently gathering the names of potential presidential candidates, including Hezbollah’s Suleiman Franjieh, the army chief, and Samir Geagea, leader of the Lebanese Forces.

Bassil further stressed the importance of enforcing U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, and he affirmed that no Lebanese citizen would tolerate any form of occupation. He also praised Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, describing him as a patriotic, responsible, and wise leader, despite their longstanding political differences.