Lebanon Celebrates Overthrow of Assad Regime as Christians Seek Sovereignty

The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria has led to widespread celebrations in Lebanon, particularly among Christian factions. Dr. Samir Geagea of the Lebanese Forces Party marks this event as a pivotal moment for sovereign state-building and addresses the implications for Hezbollah. The regime’s removal sparks discussions around rebuilding Lebanon free from external influences.

Celebrations erupted across various regions of Lebanon following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, igniting jubilant public gatherings in several Lebanese squares, where ecstatic individuals set off fireworks. Border crossings between Lebanon and Syria witnessed the prompt removal of images of Assad and symbols associated with the Baath Party.

In a significant reflection of this moment, Dr. Samir Geagea, the leader of the Lebanese Forces Party, a prominent Christian political faction and former militia during the Lebanese Civil War, gathered members of the Strong Republic Bloc along with the Party’s Executive Committee, Central Council, and General Assembly at the Lebanese Forces Headquarters to celebrate this pivotal event. Dr. Geagea characterized Assad’s fall as a “warrior’s respite,” emphasizing the historic struggles faced by Lebanon and the path toward establishing a fully sovereign state.

The Lebanese Forces Party has a long-standing history of opposing Syrian influence in Lebanon. Its founder, Bachir Gemayel, was assassinated by Syrian forces in 1982. Dr. Geagea, the only leader during the Lebanese Civil War who endured 11 years of imprisonment under Syrian occupation, has consistently upheld a firm opposition against external domination of Lebanon.

During his address, Dr. Geagea criticized the Syrian regime’s detrimental effects on Lebanon, accusing it of eroding the nation’s sovereignty, wreaking havoc on villages, and amplifying Iranian influence within the country. He commemorated the day by stating, “This is also a day of justice—not just for Syria but for Lebanon,” linking it to the legacy of Bachir Gemayel.

Conversely, not all factions within Lebanon react positively to Assad’s fall. Dr. Geagea voiced concerns about Hezbollah, a prominent ally of the Syrian regime, during a press conference. He stated, “The game is over (…) Every day you delay is a day wasted—for yourselves and for all Lebanese.” Hezbollah, having already suffered setbacks from its prolonged conflict with Israel, has faced further challenges due to its involvement in the Syrian civil war. Following the collapse of Assad’s regime, the group withdrew its fighters in the face of increasing rebel offensives.

Dr. Geagea urged Hezbollah to yield its arms to the Lebanese army, advocating for the formation of a unified state capable of effectively addressing national challenges. He articulated, “Your environment needs the stability of a real state to begin reconstruction.” Widespread celebrations occurred in Christian and Sunni-majority regions of Lebanon, with many viewing this political shift as a reinvigoration of Lebanon’s autonomy, free from external interference.

Ultimately, Dr. Geagea emphasized this juncture as the start of endeavors aimed at constructing a genuine Lebanese state. He called for both unity and accountability among leaders and citizens alike to foster a promising future, declaring, “This is the beginning of building a true state in Lebanon.”

The article discusses the aftermath of Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapse in Syria and its profound impact on Lebanon, particularly among Christian factions. Dr. Samir Geagea leading celebrations reflects historical grievances regarding Syrian influence over Lebanon, stemming from unresolved historical conflicts dating back to the Lebanese Civil War. The opposition among Lebanese factions indicates a complex political landscape shaped by the legacies of foreign domination and national sovereignty aspirations.

In conclusion, the downfall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime has sparked significant celebration among Christian factions in Lebanon, particularly the Lebanese Forces Party led by Dr. Samir Geagea. This transition presents an opportunity for Lebanon to reclaim its sovereignty and establish a unified state free from foreign influence. However, it also poses challenges for Hezbollah and highlights the ongoing struggles within Lebanese politics, underlining the need for cohesion and responsibility among leaders and citizens.

Original Source: www.intellinews.com