Maronite Bishops Demand International Intervention to Enforce UN Resolution 1701.

Beirut: The Maronite Bishops' Council has issued an urgent appeal for international intervention to resolve the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic solution, an immediate ceasefire, and the enforcement of UN Resolution 1701. The council's call to action comes in response to the severe humanitarian and infrastructural toll the conflict has inflicted across regions including the Beirut suburbs, the south, and the Bekaa. According to National news agency - Lebanon, the statement released after the council's monthly meeting, led by Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi, highlighted the widespread devastation and high casualty rates. The bishops expressed their distress over the situation and urged global powers to take decisive diplomatic measures to restore peace and stability in Lebanon. The bishops acknowledged and supported international efforts to aid Lebanon, particularly praising the French initiative spearheaded by President Emmanuel Macron. The Paris Conference has emerged a s a pivotal forum for garnering international support, with a focus on financial assistance to bolster Lebanon's sovereignty. The council specifically noted the importance of financial backing for the Lebanese Armed Forces to ensure they can fulfill their sovereign responsibilities. Additionally, the Maronite Bishops urged local authorities to prevent conflicts between displaced persons and host communities. They advocated for the creation of coordination committees involving governors, municipalities, civil society organizations, and security forces to maintain stability and provide necessary assistance during these challenging times. The bishops also highlighted the critical state of Lebanon's educational system, calling on those in charge to take immediate action. They recommended that the Ministry of Education establish a specialized central committee representing both public and private schools to develop a plan to safeguard the academic year, ensuring that the nation's children continue to receive edu cation despite the ongoing crisis.