Gemayel Meets President Joseph Aoun, Reaffirms Commitment to State-Building and National Interests

Kataeb Party leader MP Samy Gemayel reaffirmed his support for the President of the Republic and the journey toward state-building, calling on all political forces to facilitate the efforts of the President and the Prime Minister-designate to get the state back on track.

Gemayel acknowledged the difficult circumstances and significant challenges the country is facing, urging unity around the President.

He emphasized that the Kataeb Party has never been an obstacle to forming a government and will not hinder the efforts of the Prime Minister-designate, asserting that the Kataeb party places Lebanon’s interests above its own.

He also highlighted the symbolic importance of returning to Baabda, to “our home and the home of the Lebanese people.”

The remarks were made following Gemayel’s meeting with President Joseph Aoun at the Presidential Palace in Baabda.

He expressed hope for the formation of a competent government capable of addressing pressing issues, resolving the people’s problems, and restoring hope to the nation.

He also called for a Ministry of Foreign Affairs that operates solely in the interest of Lebanon and its people.

Gemayel reiterated that the country is facing immense challenges and emphasized the need for solidarity around official institutions and the President, to whom he extended full support, respect, and trust.

In response to a question, Gemayel stated, "I don't believe anyone is still influenced by propaganda," affirming that the right of southerners to return safely to their towns is sacred.

He stressed that this responsibility lies with the President and the next government, asserting that the matter should not be subject to political exploitation.

He expressed full confidence in the Lebanese Army, which bears the responsibility of ensuring a safe return, emphasizing that this task should remain free from political manipulation.

Gemayel acknowledged the feelings of marginalization experienced by some Lebanese, reiterating his firm stance against the infringement of anyone's rights. However, he added that those who reject privileges granted to others should not accept them for themselves either.

Gemayel firmly declared his commitment to maintaining a positive tone, despite anger from many and questions from some asking why he behaves like Saint Charbel and assumes that everyone shares his perspective.

He concluded, "I will continue to advocate for openness and call on all Lebanese to adhere to the principles of the state so that we can build this country together."

Regarding the suggestion that the Prime Minister-designate is being cornered into choosing between forming a de facto government or stepping down following recent events, Gemayel commented, "We should not reach this point—why focus on negative scenarios?"

He added, "Let us remain committed to positive outcomes. A process has been initiated, taking all considerations into account, and we hope no one obstructs it because obstruction will ultimately backfire on those responsible."

Gemayel posed a series of rhetorical questions: "Don’t we need a government to rebuild the South, ministers to carry out their duties, and reforms to secure funding for the country’s recovery? Or is it that we do not want the South to be rebuilt or the nation to rise again?" He continued, "Don’t we want a fully formed government capable of ensuring the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and of expediting the end of this occupation?"

He emphasized, "All of this requires an active government. Where is the benefit in obstructing the process, delaying the South's reconstruction, prolonging the Israeli occupation, and preventing the establishment of an authority capable of fulfilling its responsibilities? Who stands to gain from such a scenario?" He concluded resolutely, "No one."