Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi met with Kataeb MP Salim Sayegh on Friday, where urgent discussions centered around the critical need for alternative transportation routes in Lebanon amid escalating concerns about the country’s stability.

Following the meeting, Sayegh issued a direct appeal to Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Caretaker Minister of Public Works and Transport Ali Hamieh to take immediate action in reopening both the Klayaat Airport and the Jounieh Port.

He also called for expedited studies to assess the potential reopening of the Hamat and Rayak airports.

"The purpose of this visit was to seek the guidance and wisdom of His Beatitude the Patriarch during these challenging times," Sayegh stated. "We made it clear that we strongly oppose the current trajectory pushing Lebanon toward war. We firmly reject any attempts to drag the country into conflict or make political compromises in the absence of a president. Any significant meetings or negotiations must include the President of the Republic. Therefore, electing a president remains our top priority."

Sayegh voiced his concern about the State's diminishing role in the country’s own affairs, noting that "external parties are speaking on behalf of Lebanon, while the country itself remains sidelined."

Given the increasing threats to Lebanon's security and the possibility of border closures, particularly affecting air travel through Beirut’s main airport, Sayegh urged the government to prepare alternative transportation plans.

"In the event that Beirut Airport is rendered unusable, it is imperative that the Klayaat Airport be equipped and operational as a viable alternative. The Lebanese people should not be left at the mercy of circumstances beyond their control," Sayegh declared. “Given the government’s limited resources, it is imperative to devise an emergency plan to mitigate the dangers threatening the country.”

Sayegh also emphasized the need for the government to prioritize infrastructure development away from political interference and influence, calling for the immediate reopening of Klayaat Airport, a swift feasibility study on reopening Hamat and Rayak airports, and the restoration of Jounieh Port, which serves 1.5 million people in Mount Lebanon.

“These are achievable goals that would address critical needs swiftly,” he said.

Sayegh reported that Patriarch Al-Rahi was totally receptive to these proposals.

 "We received His Beatitude's full support, and we plan to continue advancing these initiatives both within Lebanon and internationally," Sayegh concluded.