Maronite Synod in Beirut, Lebanon, Calls for Arms Limited to State and Full Implementation of Resolution 1701

Archbishop Munir Khair Allah read the final communiqué of the Synod of the Maronite Church. The communiqué said the synod fathers were pleased with the election of Pope Leo XIV and confirmed their support for him in his spiritual and pastoral ministry.

The synod also denounced what the Gaza Strip had endured for more than a year. It called on the international community and on people of conscience to press the parties to the conflict toward a just solution based on a two-State solution, a call for peace (Matthew 5:9).

Turning to Lebanon, the synod said the country was experiencing a serious crisis that threatened its identity. It nonetheless noted signs of hope, welcoming the launch of the appointment workshop and the preparations for beginning a reform process.

The synod renewed its support for the President of the Republic and the Government and expressed the hope that they would continue their work at a faster pace.

It called on the Lebanese State to assume its full responsibility for protecting educational institutions. The communiqué stressed the need for the full return of deposits and for restructuring the banking sector.

The synod also urged the State to limit arms to its own control and to implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006). It further called for control of the borders, an end to smuggling, and the start of the reconstruction workshop.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)