Frem: The Approach to the Lebanese Issue Will Change After the U.S. Elections

The Chairman of “Project Watan’s” Executive Board, MP Neemat Frem, anticipated a “change in the approach to the Lebanese issue after the U.S. elections.”  He also expected that “the war will end under the term of the newly elected president faster than it would have previously.”

In an interview, he stated that President Trump’s principle regarding ongoing global wars and conflicts is reminiscent of the old Latin adage that was the motto of the Roman Army: “Si vis pacem, para bellum” (If you want peace, prepare for war).

“President Trump proposes peace from a position of strength and boldness, suggesting that he has the capability to ignite a war, while at the same time urging others to embrace peace,” Frem explained. He added that “ending the war raging in the Middle East is in the U.S.’s interest, as it, at the very least, causes a substantial financial drain through military expenses, given the significant deficit in the American economy and the cost of servicing debt.” 

The lawmaker noted that “there is still an opportunity for the White House Envoy to Lebanon, Amos Hochstein, to make one last attempt during the transitional period to achieve a ceasefire – with clear and full implementation of Resolution 1701 and expanded authority for UNIFIL and the Lebanese army – and to resolve unsettled border issues and disputed points. Syria plays an important role here, as it needs to provide proof that the Shebaa Farms are Lebanese.”

He added: “We must exit the conflict and avoid becoming fuel for projects in which we are not directly involved. No Lebanese should die for a cause that is not for Lebanon.  Today, a new spirit prevails globally, opening a significant chapter based on the win-win principle, benefiting all parties. Creating and distributing added value has become a priority that benefits everyone. Therefore, we must swiftly commit to fully implementing Resolution 1701, assure the international community that the Lebanese army is the one protecting our borders, and initiate state-building; otherwise, we risk becoming a kind of no-man’s-land because, as the saying goes, ‘opportunity makes the thief.’”

As for the coming phase, Frem said that it will be challenging and under significant pressure, “particularly regarding the displaced persons crisis and the possibility that a large number of them may soon be unable to pay rent and secure housing.”

“Only legitimate institutions can protect us,” he stressed. “The Lebanese army and security forces are called to act swiftly and wisely in addressing any conflicts between refugees and host communities, as ‘scarcity breeds conflict,’ and we want to avoid internal strife.”

On another note, Frem commented on the incident in Batroun, saying it is no different from the breaches occurring across Lebanon “because we left our doors wide open.”

He emphasized that “the time has come to close our doors by separating the arenas, enforcing the ceasefire, adhering to Resolution 1701 and its provisions, returning to the shelter of the legitimate state, and focusing on building a strong institutional state.”

Frem concluded by calling for a shared project in Lebanon focused on building state institutions free from sectarianism and political quotas. “We need a change in spirit, and the election of the next president should be a commitment from each MP and parliamentary bloc to this project. Unfortunately, state institutions have become spoils of war due to favoritism, hiring practices, and political quotas. This must end. The next phase should be centered on the economy, ensuring social protection, stability, and growth.”