Syriac Maronite Patriarch calls for action on Syrian refugee crisis in Lebanon

BETH KERKE, Lebanon — In his Easter Mass sermon, Syriac Maronite Patriarch Mor Bechara Butros al-Rai called for a solution to the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis in Lebanon.

Patriarch al-Rai acknowledged the economic and political crises in Lebanon that have led to many Lebanese people living below the poverty line, struggling to afford basic necessities like food and medicine. He also pointed out that the presence of Syrian refugees has added to the strain on the country’s resources and social security.

While he expressed compassion for the plight of the Syrian refugees, the Patriarch stated that it was time for the international community to take action and assist in their safe and voluntary return to their homeland. He criticized the international community for ignoring the negative impact of the refugee crisis on Lebanon and for failing to provide adequate support to the host country.

Patriarch al-Rai’s call for a solution to the Syrian refugee crisis is rooted in a desire to ease the burden on Lebanon and to ensure the safety and well-being of both Lebanese citizens and Syrian refugees, he said. He urged the international community to work together to find a solution that is both humane and practical, and that respects the rights and dignity of all those affected by the crisis.