In a significant political gathering, opposition lawmakers met at the headquarters of the Lebanese Forces Party in Maarab to deliberate on Lebanon's pressing challenges. The meeting brought together representatives from various opposition blocs and independent MPs, signaling a unified effort to tackle the country's political, economic, and security crises.

Attendees included MPs Ghassan Hasbani, Fadi Karam, Antoine Habchi, Camille Chamoun, Salim Sayegh, Nadim Gemayel, Ashraf Rifi, Fouad Makhzoumi, Michel Mouawad, Waddah Sadek, Michel Douaihy, Mark Daou, and Adib Abdel Massih.

A Call for Stability and Reform

Following the meeting, MP Salim Sayegh read a statement on behalf of the opposition, emphasizing the need for urgent and decisive action as Lebanon is facing a pivotal phase. 

“We are at a critical juncture requiring concerted, intensive efforts to ensure security and stability while rebuilding the state and its institutions on firm, reform-driven foundations rooted in democratic principles,” Sayegh said.

The opposition reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel, calling for its implementation through measures approved by the government. These include adherence to international resolutions, enforcement of the Taif Accord, addressing violations, and the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces across all Lebanese territories and borders.

“This is essential to establishing a functional and sovereign state,” the statement noted.

Presidential Election Focus

Turning to the ongoing presidential election stalemate, the statement underscored January 9 as a decisive and crucial deadline for electing a president who would be committed to the Constitution, the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, and the enforcement of key reforms to pull Lebanon out of its deepening crises. The statement called for intensified efforts among all blocs to reach a consensus on a suitable candidate.

“In any case, we insist that the January 9 session remain open, with successive voting rounds until a president is elected, as stipulated by the constitution,” the statement stressed.

Holding the Government Accountable

The statement urged the government to fulfill its responsibilities, warning that ceasefire violations undermine Lebanon’s stability and future. It also highlighted the  unprecedented international support for this transitional phase, calling on the Lebanese state, having endorsed the ceasefire agreement, to fully commit to its implementation to secure a positive outcome.

“Without full implementation of international law and the ceasefire agreement—particularly in terms of the exclusive control of arms by the Lebanese state—there will be no salvation for Lebanon,” the statement asserted. “Achieving this is the natural gateway for Lebanon to become a fully sovereign state.”

Opposition's United Front

The statement reiterated the opposition’s commitment to electing a president with clear and decisive principles who can inspire confidence among Lebanese citizens. It also confirmed that discussions within the opposition will remain open and confidential until the final phase of candidate selection is achieved. The opposition firmly rejected any return to past political compromises, whether in government decisions or ministerial statements.

Voices from the Opposition

Kataeb MP Nadim Gemayel called for courage in addressing Lebanon’s challenges directly, rejecting half-measures as inadequate solutions.

Independent MP Adib Abdel Massih highlighted the urgent need for re-establishing sovereignty and the election of a president who would restore the functionality of public institutions. He praised the Lebanese Forces' initiative, noting that similar meetings would follow.