Project Watan: From Under Fire to the Negotiating Table

Project Watan’s Executive Board held its weekly meeting, chaired by MP Neemat Frem and attended by all members. The ongoing war – both internally and externally – and its repercussions on Lebanon constituted the central topic of discussion. After extensive deliberations, the Board issued the following statement:

• The Executive Board considers that the war unfolding in Lebanon bears no relation to our country, neither directly nor indirectly. At its core, it is a war of external actors over a cause that does not concern us and does not reflect the will of our people. Lebanon – land and people – is effectively hijacked and is the first victim of this confrontation.

On this basis, the Board calls on the international community and the United Nations Security Council to heed Lebanon’s voice, both official and popular, and to take the necessary decisions and measures to help Lebanon and its people fully restore their sovereignty.

• Project Watan reaffirms its full support for Lebanese legitimacy, embodied in its constitutional institutions, in their ongoing efforts to halt the war and move toward negotiations. Lebanon’s prolonged subordination to external forces has exhausted the country, and we hope this phase will mark the final stage of this conflict.

The Board also calls on all parties to rally around the state and its military institutions, and to exert every effort to prevent internal chaos and avert anything that could threaten civil peace.

• Project Watan strongly condemns any threats or attacks targeting journalists or civilians, as well as Lebanese soldiers and UNIFIL members, in addition to healthcare and emergency institutions. It also denounces hostile directives targeting American schools and universities, deeming such conduct totally unacceptable.

• The Board commends the steadfastness of the residents of Christian villages, as well as all villages across South Lebanon, who continue to stand firm despite threats and risks, and who insist on remaining on their land and holding fast to their roots.

The Board also extends its gratitude to the Apostolic Nunciature and its ambassador, Monsignor Paolo Borgia, for their significant efforts in supporting these villages – both morally and materially – and encouraging their residents to remain on their land, along with all supporting institutions.