Lebanon celebrated the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, particularly among opposition factions and the Lebanese Forces Party led by Dr. Samir Geagea. Celebrations included fireworks and community gatherings, marking a historic moment for sovereignty in Lebanon as the party urged Hezbollah to disarm and unify under a legitimate state.
Celebrations erupted throughout Lebanon following the reported fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, particularly among opposition factions. Public gatherings were evident in numerous Lebanese squares, where jubilant crowds launched fireworks in celebration. In addition, prominent images associated with the Assad regime were rapidly removed from various border crossings.
Dr. Samir Geagea, leader of the Lebanese Forces Party, convened various party members and leaders at the Lebanese Forces Headquarters. He characterized the fall of Assad as a “warrior’s respite,” highlighting the historical context while advocating for the establishment of a genuinely sovereign Lebanese state free from foreign dominion. Geagea’s party has a longstanding opposition to Syrian influence within Lebanon, notably since the assassination of its founder, Bachir Gemayel, by Syrian forces in 1982.
Geagea recounted the significant adverse impacts of the Syrian regime on Lebanon, asserting that it systematically infringed upon the sovereignty of the nation while exacerbating Iranian influence. He stated that this event should also be considered a day of justice not just for Syria but for Lebanon, emphasizing the symbolic weight of Bachir Gemayel’s legacy.
Despite widespread jubilation, Geagea raised concerns regarding Hezbollah, an ally of the Assad regime, emphasizing that “the game is over.” He underscored the need for Hezbollah to relinquish its weapons to the Lebanese armed forces, advocating for a unified state equipped to navigate the myriad challenges faced by Lebanon.
Celebrations were particularly pronounced in Christian and Sunni-majority regions, where many view Assad’s fall as a pivotal moment for Lebanon to reclaim its independence. Geagea heralded this moment as the inception of efforts towards constructing a true Lebanese state and called on both leaders and citizens to embrace unity and responsibility, heralding, “This is the beginning of building a true state in Lebanon.”
The article discusses the wave of celebrations in Lebanon following the anticipated fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria. The significance of this event is particularly pertinent to Lebanese factions, primarily the Lebanese Forces Party, which has historically opposed Syrian interference. The leader of this party, Dr. Samir Geagea, provides insight into the implications of Assad’s downfall, particularly in relation to Hezbollah, as well as reflecting on the broader themes of sovereignty and national identity in Lebanon.
In conclusion, the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria has sparked significant celebrations among various factions in Lebanon, particularly the Christian community and members of the Lebanese Forces Party. Dr. Samir Geagea’s remarks encapsulate a moment of hope for sovereignty and national reconstruction, while also calling for responsibility and unity among Lebanese citizens. The implications for Hezbollah and the future of Lebanese governance are crucial points of discussion as the country embarks on this formative period.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com