Spiritual leaders unite in Beth Kerke, Lebanon, call for ceasefire, unity, and Lebanon’s presidential election amid ongoing conflict

BETH KERKE, Lebanon — Amid the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and the Israeli Army, which has caused widespread devastation in Lebanon, a spiritual conference was held in Beth Kerke (Bkerke), Lebanon, led by Syriac Maronite Patriarch Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rai. The gathering brought together leaders of various Christian and Islamic sects to discuss key issues, including the ceasefire, the implementation of international resolutions, and the urgent need to elect a president for Lebanon.

Among the attendees were Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and all the East John X Yazigi, Bishop Boulos Safar representing the Syriac Orthodox Patriarch, and Bishop George Touma representing the Assyrian community. Prominent Islamic figures included the Mufti of the Lebanese Republic, Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian, the Sheikh of the Druze Unitarian sect, Sami Abi Al-Muna, and Vice President of the Supreme Islamic Shiite Council, Sheikh Ali Al-Khatib, accompanied by Jaafari Mufti Sheikh Ahmed Qabalan and Supreme Islamic Council President Sheikh Ali Qaddour.

The conference addressed the tragic humanitarian situation caused by Israeli bombings, which have displaced countless Lebanese from their villages and towns. Participants emphasized the importance of national unity, institutional roles, and solidarity during this critical period. They condemned the ongoing Israeli attacks and the massacres inflicted on Lebanon.

The leaders called for intensified diplomatic efforts to halt the conflict and urged the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which would grant the Lebanese Army and United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) full security control. They also stressed the urgent need to elect a president for Lebanon to help stabilize the country amidst the ongoing crisis.