Maronite Patriarch Bechara al‑Rahi said on Wednesday that Lebanon is “not heading toward collapse,” crediting what he called “a divine hand” for keeping the country intact despite years of political and economic turmoil.

Speaking at the patriarchal seat in Bkerki during an event marking the Catholic Church’s 59th World Day of Social Communications and the Jubilee Year themed “Hope Does Not Disappoint,” al‑Rahi insisted that Lebanon’s precarious position demands absolute neutrality in regional conflicts. He noted that the principle was cited in the president’s inaugural speech and pleaded for international backing to make it a reality.

“Lebanon’s delicate reality necessitates for neutrality,” he told journalists. “We need the support of friendly nations to achieve it.”

Al‑Rahi said an Israeli withdrawal from the remaining occupied hills in south‑east Lebanon is essential to enable the head of state to move forward in disarming Hezbollah.

“If Israel pulls back, the president can act to remove Hezbollah’s weapons,” he said.

"Why is Israel still in the South, and why hasn’t Hezbollah handed over its arms yet? Without these steps, reconstruction cannot begin.”

The patriarch lamented what he called a “tragedy” of mass emigration that now affects Muslims and Christians alike.

“Lebanon no longer offers opportunities for its youth,” he said. “Many have succeeded abroad, but we hope an economic revival allows them to stay in their homeland.” He urged the state to enact long‑delayed reforms to protect citizens and jump‑start growth.

Al‑Rahi also appealed to journalists to become “messengers of hope,” warning that media outlets often spread fear, distrust, and sensationalism. Quoting late Pope Francis, he urged reporters to “disarm the media” and cleanse public discourse of hostility.

“Communication does not always generate hope,” he cautioned. “Sometimes it breeds fear and suspicion. We must purify our words of aggression.”