Christian Front welcomes Lebanon’s new government, calls for reform and assertion of sovereignty

BEIRUT — Lebanon’s newly formed government received a strong endorsement from the Christian Front, which expressed its support for President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. During its regular meeting, the group commended the two leaders for overcoming the significant challenge of forming a government amidst Lebanon’s ongoing crises.

In a statement issued following its regular meeting, the Christian Front voiced optimism that the new government would rise to meet the expectations of the Lebanese people, who yearn for an end to what it described as the “corrupt and armed alliance” that has governed the country for years, referring to Iran-backed Hezbollah and the Amal Movement. The statement criticized Lebanon’s political environment, citing backroom deals, sectarian quotas, financial mismanagement, and the unchecked influence of militias engaged in “imported wars” that threaten the nation’s stability.

Call to Uphold International Obligations

The Christian Front urged the government to honor the commitments outlined in the presidential oath, particularly by adhering to international resolutions and agreements. It emphasized the importance of fully implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1559, which calls for the disarmament of all militias, both Lebanese and non-Lebanese, and the exclusive authority of the Lebanese Armed Forces over national security.

The statement also demanded the elimination of autonomous security zones controlled by armed groups across Lebanon. Additionally, the Christian Front warned against any vague or divisive language in the government’s ministerial statement, specifically rejecting references to the “Army, People, Resistance” equation, which it deemed obsolete and counterproductive. Instead, it called for unequivocal support for the Lebanese Army, emphasizing the need to strengthen the institution both financially and structurally to secure the nation’s borders effectively.

Push for Sovereignty and Reform

The Christian Front also highlighted the urgency of rebuilding Lebanon’s state institutions through cooperation with the international community. It advocated for transitioning away from what it characterized as a “militia-dominated, corrupt, and dependent” system to a sovereign state governed by the rule of law and dedicated to protecting human dignity.

Reiterating its long-standing position, the Christian Front proposed exploring a federal governance model as a solution to Lebanon’s challenges. It argued that federalism would better preserve Lebanon’s pluralistic and multicultural identity while ensuring security and stability for all its citizens.

As Lebanon’s new government begins its tenure, the Christian Front’s demands underscore the pressing need for both reform and a renewed commitment to national sovereignty. Whether these calls will translate into actionable policies remains to be seen.