Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi on Wednesday denounced the recent Israeli airstrikes as a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement, reaffirming Lebanon’s commitment to diplomacy in preserving stability.

Following a meeting with President Joseph Aoun at Baabda Palace, Al-Rahi stressed the need for the State to have sole control over weapons, warning that Lebanon cannot function with “two armies and two sets of weapons.” He urged both the president and the prime minister to take decisive action to resolve the issue.

Addressing the upcoming municipal elections in Beirut, the patriarch emphasized the importance of legal provisions that uphold diversity, calling for a formalized agreement to guide the electoral process.

“A written agreement in Beirut would be preferable to a verbal one,” he said, highlighting the need to ensure fair representation for all communities.

Al-Rahi also voiced support for the development of Qlayaat Airport in northern Lebanon, arguing that expanding the country’s aviation infrastructure would boost the economy and create much-needed job opportunities.