As the war on Lebanon intensifies, an extraordinary spiritual summit was convened Wednesday in Bkerke, led by Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi. The summit brought together Christian and Islamic religious leaders, united in their concern for the country's deepening crisis.

In his opening remarks, Patriarch Al-Rahi acknowledged the profound wounds Lebanon is suffering, saying that the entire nation is deeply hurt, "and we are all here to heal these wounds."

"We are here to console our hearts and the hearts of our people, who are gravely affected. We are witnessing a national tragedy sweeping everyone, and this is a time for healing and finding solutions. This is our role as spiritual leaders, and it is our responsibility towards our people", Al-Rahi said. 

Grand Mufti Abdel Latif Derian expressed gratitude for the invitation to the summit, emphasizing the importance of unity.

"Lebanon will remain our homeland. Its faith in God, national unity, and the authenticity of its people will safeguard it, ensure its continuity, and repel the enemy," he said, describing the gathering as "a powerful message to the world and the strongest response to the enemy, which resorts to killing and destruction in a barbaric manner, disregarding the United Nations and the Security Council."

"Our homeland will remain a haven of freedom, democracy, and coexistence. With its unity, the solidarity of the Lebanese people, its Arab identity, and the strength of its people, Lebanon will stand as a formidable barrier against any aggressor."

Derian also addressed the broader political crisis, calling for the urgent election of a President of the Republic.

"What happened in Lebanon is a severe test for all of us, which has exposed the country to destruction. The election of a President is the key issue, and should be done in adherence to the Constitution which entrusts the President with addressing the major national issues that ensure the country’s safety, sovereignty, and stability, as well as the unity of the Lebanese people," he stated.

"We have had enough of division and chaos. The State must regain its role and decision-making power. We must ensure the application of the Constitution and the Taif Agreement. The Lebanese people need a State that protects them and provides them with security," Derian emphasized.

Sheikh Ali Al-Khatib, Deputy Head of the Higher Shia Council, echoed similar concerns about the severity of the current crisis.

"In these circumstances, we have come hoping for a stance that rises to the level of the reality we face, where Israel is waging a genocidal war that targets all of Lebanon," Al-Khatib said.

"The aggression does not target one group in particular but the entire nation—its people, its entity, and its spiritual communities. We must confront this aggression in a comprehensive and united manner," Al-Khatib urged.