Project Watan: No Salvation Without Historic Decisions Under the Banner of the State

Project Watan’s Executive Board held its weekly meeting, chaired by MP Neemat Frem and attended by all members. After deliberations and discussions, the following statement was issued:

• Project Watan considers that the situation in Syria has evolved into a systematic approach aimed at subjugating and dismantling national structures – with the risk of this model spreading to neighboring countries.

In this context, Lebanon must draw the deepest lesson by returning to the core of its identity: a civilizational model based on diversity and openness – not as a burden, but as a foundational value. Only sound and just governance of this diversity can stand against escalating threats. There is no alternative but to uphold the Lebanese entity through historic decisions that shield the country from falling into the fragmentation trap threatening the entire region.

• The participants discussed the issue of placing Hezbollah’s weapons under the authority of the Lebanese state and unanimously agreed that Lebanon’s true strength lies in the resilience of its national institutions – first and foremost, the Lebanese Army – and in the unity of its people under the banner of the state.

Building on this national principle, they emphasized that Lebanon’s societal and civilizational pluralism is an authentic historical reality – not the product of Sykes-Picot or any other agreement – and is therefore indispensable to shaping a common national destiny. Everyone, without exception or discrimination, must fall under the authority of the Lebanese state, which alone holds control over legitimacy, arms, and decision-making.

• The Board praised the government’s reaffirmation of its unified national position during the parliamentary session dedicated to discussing its policies – an essential foundation in this critical period of transition.

It also applauded the steps taken by the Cabinet to fill vacancies in diplomatic, administrative, and judicial posts in an effort to restore institutional regularity.

In parallel, the Executive Board calls on the executive power to complement political and administrative measures with concrete implementation steps to address the country’s mounting social, economic, and environmental crises – including the chronic waste management issue – by finding a final and comprehensive solution, and by strictly enforcing laws, particularly those related to road traffic and public safety.

• Project Watan once again raises its voice in firm defense of the full right of Lebanese expatriates to vote for all 128 members of Parliament. This stems from its deep belief that Lebanese abroad represent a living extension of “Lebanon, the message” and are an integral part of its national identity and democratic path.

As Lebanon stands on the threshold of a new phase that requires decisive choices to restore its leading role amid regional and international shifts, the inclusion of expatriates is not merely an acquired right; it is a national duty that cannot be undermined by narrow political calculations.