Lebanon’s Christian Factions Celebrate Assad Regime’s Fall as a…

Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, celebrations erupted in Lebanon, particularly among Christian factions. Dr. Samir Geagea of the Lebanese Forces Party publicly commemorated this moment, characterizing it as a step toward Lebanese sovereignty. He urged Hezbollah to disarm, indicating profound aspirations for a unified and independent Lebanon, free from foreign influence.

In Lebanon, jubilation spread following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, as various opposition factions seized control of Damascus. The announcement sparked public celebrations across Lebanese cities, with fireworks lighting up the skies. Images of Assad and symbols of the Baath Party were swiftly removed from border checkpoints, signaling a significant shift. At the Lebanese Forces Headquarters, Dr. Samir Geagea, the party leader, convened supporters to commemorate this pivotal moment in history, referring to Assad’s downfall as a “warrior’s respite” and reflecting on the struggles that have shaped Lebanon’s quest for sovereignty.

The Lebanese Forces Party has historically opposed Syrian influence in Lebanon. Founded by Bachir Gemayel, who was assassinated by Syrian forces in 1982, the party has consistently championed Lebanese sovereignty. Geagea, who endured eleven years of imprisonment during the Syrian occupation, emphasized the destructive impact of the Syrian regime on Lebanon, asserting that its actions not only undermined national sovereignty but also facilitated Iranian influence within the country. He proclaimed the day as one of justice, not just for Syria, but also for Lebanon, reiterating the significant legacy of Gemayel.

However, the celebrations were juxtaposed against concerns regarding Hezbollah, Assad’s long-standing ally. In a press conference, Geagea conveyed to Hezbollah that their reign was over and urged them to relinquish their weapons to the Lebanese army. He articulated a vision for a unified Lebanon capable of navigating its challenges, noting that true stability is requisite for rebuilding the state. The fall of Assad has prompted further calls for Lebanese independence from external control, particularly from Iran and Syria.

Protests and celebrations erupted in areas predominantly occupied by Christians and Sunnis, symbolizing a collective aspiration for a liberated and sovereign Lebanon. Geagea underscored that this moment represents the inception of genuine state-building efforts, advocating for cooperation and accountability among the political leaders and citizens alike. The overarching hope is to initiate a strengthened foundation for Lebanon’s future, free from foreign dominance and intervention.

The status of Lebanon has been greatly influenced by the political dynamics in Syria, especially under the dictatorship of Bashar al-Assad. Historically, various Lebanese factions, notably the Christian-dominated Lebanese Forces Party, have been vocal against Syrian interference in Lebanon’s internal affairs. The impact of Assad’s regime, which greatly affected Lebanese sovereignty through military and political manipulation, remains a contentious issue, particularly after the Lebanese Civil War that spanned from 1975 to 1990. Recent changes in Syria have rekindled hopes among some Lebanese factions for reconstruction and independence from foreign influence, particularly from Iran and Syria.

The celebrations following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime highlight a pivotal moment in Lebanon’s ongoing struggle for sovereignty. The Lebanese Forces Party, under Dr. Samir Geagea, perceives this change as an opportunity to establish a genuinely independent Lebanese state. With calls for Hezbollah to disarm and for greater unity among Lebanese citizens, the events underscore a collective yearning for a future free from external control. This shift serves as a critical juncture for national identity and governance.

Original Source: www.intellinews.com