Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rahi voiced deep frustration over Lebanon’s prolonged political paralysis, saying the country remains trapped in internal and external conflicts and continues to serve as a battleground for regional powers.

In an interview with Voice of Lebanon and VDL24, al-Rahi said the first step toward pulling Lebanon out of its crisis is adopting a policy of neutrality and rebuilding a sovereign state capable of defending itself.

“The starting point for any solution is neutrality, and for the State to stand on its own, protected by one unified army and guided by a single foreign policy,” he said, stressing the need for the country to reclaim its sovereignty, stop depending on outside actors, and cease functioning as a platform for any foreign power operating from its territory.

Al-Rahi called on all political forces to recognize the gravity of the moment and work to defuse tensio, insisting that lasting stability begins with reaffirming Lebanon’s identity and restoring the principles that once made it a model for the region.

Al-Rahi said the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV offers Lebanon an invaluable opportunity, describing it as “the greatest service” the country could receive at this critical moment. He noted that the Vatican is fully aware of Lebanon’s precarious situation, including the threat of a wider conflict between Israel and Hezbollah and the severe economic crisis facing its population.

“The visit will draw the world’s attention back to this small nation,” he said, adding that the Pope’s presence is intended to strengthen the hope of Lebanon’s Christian community.

“The visit is historic in both substance and timing.”

He described Pope Francis as “a messenger of peace who carries a message of hope,” stressing that such a message is urgently needed by the Lebanese, who he said have forgotten the essence of their pioneering role in the Middle East; a role built on the country’s unique model of coexistence and the value of Lebanon as a small but exceptional homeland.