A Christian-Muslim spiritual summit took place in Bkerke, initiated by Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi. The summit gathered Lebanon’s leading Christian and Muslim spiritual figures, demonstrating solidarity in the face of the ongoing crisis in Lebanon and the broader region. The participants issued a unified statement condemning the violence and emphasized the importance of national unity, constitutional reform, and the defense of Lebanon's sovereignty.

Among the attendees were Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi, Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdel Latif Derian, Vice President of the Supreme Islamic Shiite Council Sheikh Ali Al-Khatib, Greek Orthodox Patriarch John X Yazigi, Druze Community Sheikh Sami Abi Al-Muna, and other senior religious leaders representing the Armenian Orthodox, Syriac Catholic, and Protestant communities, among others. 

Condemnation of Israeli Aggression

The statement issued by the summit participants unequivocally condemned Israel’s "brutal and savage" aggression against Lebanon and Gaza. It highlighted Israel’s complete disregard for international treaties, human rights, and United Nations resolutions, as well as the destruction and mass killings carried out amid the silence of the international community. The religious leaders decried the unprecedented destruction of homes, hospitals, places of worship, and vital civilian infrastructure, with special mention of the tragic loss of innocent lives, particularly among women, children, and the elderly.

This devastation, they emphasized, represents one of the darkest chapters in modern history, both for the atrocities committed and for the global community’s failure to act. The summit called for urgent and decisive international intervention to put an end to this violence, starting with an immediate ceasefire.

A Unified Call for National Salvation

In addition to denouncing Israel’s aggression, the summit focused on the need for national unity. The spiritual leaders urged the Lebanese people to come together, recognizing that the Israeli assault targets the entire nation and threatens its very survival. They emphasized that Lebanon’s strength lies in its unity, with the statement asserting that “the future of Lebanon must be built on national solutions rooted in the Lebanese Constitution, the Taif Agreement, and the authority of the state.”

The call for national solidarity was coupled with a warning: the time for partisan debates or personal gain is over. Instead, the leaders stressed that it is crucial for all Lebanese citizens to rally around their country, trusting one another and upholding national sovereignty. They reminded the public that Lebanon’s unity is its most potent weapon against external threats and that only through solidarity can the nation withstand and repel the ongoing aggression.

Urging International Action

The summit’s statement included a strong plea to the United Nations Security Council to intervene immediately and enforce a ceasefire, putting an end to the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe. Lebanon, they said, represents a unique model of peaceful coexistence in the Middle East and must be protected as a “message of peace and love,” as described by Pope John Paul II. The religious leaders implored the international community to recognize the scale of the disaster and act swiftly to prevent further destruction.

Strengthening the Role of the State

Lebanon’s government was urged to assert its authority throughout the country, working alongside Parliament to mobilize support from Arab and international allies for Lebanon’s recovery.

National Sovereignty and Constitutional Reform

The summit’s statement also addressed the urgent need for constitutional reform in Lebanon. The leaders called on Parliament to elect a new president without delay, one who commands broad trust and respect among all Lebanese. This, they said, must be achieved through a national consensus that respects Lebanon’s Constitution and the spirit of the National Pact, free from external interference.

Implemention of UNSC Resolution 1701

The full implementation of UN Resolution 1701 was highlighted as a key priority. The religious leaders called for the strengthening of the Lebanese Army and its deployment across southern Lebanon to ensure the protection of Lebanese citizens and the country’s sovereignty. They urged the Lebanese government to assume its full responsibilities, working in tandem with international allies to secure the nation’s future.

Solidarity with Displaced and Affected Communities

Expressing deep sympathy for those displaced by Israeli attacks, the summit leaders called on all Lebanese citizens to continue offering support to their fellow countrymen. They highlighted the importance of respecting private property and maintaining national solidarity, as the displaced individuals await a safe return to their homes. The summit also extended thanks to Lebanon’s Arab and international allies for their ongoing political, financial, and humanitarian support, urging them to continue aiding Lebanon in this time of dire need.

Support for UN Peacekeeping Forces

In a show of solidarity with the international peacekeeping community, the summit praised the sacrifices of UN peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon. The spiritual leaders condemned Israeli provocations against these forces, emphasizing the importance of their presence in maintaining stability along the borders. The international community was called upon to protect these peacekeepers and ensure their continued role in safeguarding Lebanon’s security.

Reaffirming the Palestinian Cause

In their concluding remarks, the summit leaders reaffirmed Lebanon’s support for the Palestinian cause. They reiterated that a just and comprehensive solution, granting Palestinians the right to an independent state as outlined in the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002, is essential for lasting peace in the region. Without addressing the Palestinian issue, the statement warned, the cycle of violence and instability in the Middle East will continue.