Beirut: The Higher Islamic Sharia Council held its regular meeting today at Dar al-Fatwa, chaired by the Grand Mufti of the Republic, Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian, with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, an ex-officio member of the Council, in attendance. During the session, Prime Minister Salam provided a briefing on his government's activities across various sectors, receiving expressions of support from the Council members for his cabinet.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, following extensive discussions on national and Islamic issues, the Council issued a statement expressing concern over ongoing Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley. Despite a UN-brokered ceasefire agreement, these attacks continue to expand, prompting the Council to call for international intervention to deter the aggression and assist Lebanon in liberating occupied territories and releasing prisoners as per the ceasefire agreement.
The Sharia Council reiterated its support for Prime Minister Salam and his government, emphasizing the necessity of restricting weapons to state control. The Council urged for the extension of state authority through legitimate forces over all territories and the implementation of the Constitution and the Taif Agreement, which calls for the disarmament of militias. The Council commended the Lebanese army's role in deploying in the south and restricting weapons, expressing satisfaction with its efforts to ensure authority over Lebanese territory.
The Council highlighted the importance of strengthening relations with Syria for mutual benefit, advocating for serious and constructive efforts between the countries. It warned against remnants of the defunct regime infiltrating Lebanese regions, disrupting security and stability, which could potentially incite strife. The Council called for the security forces' vigilance to maintain Lebanon's safety and security.
Regarding the upcoming parliamentary elections, the Council emphasized the importance of holding them on their constitutionally mandated dates, in line with the Constitution, to uphold the foundations of parliamentary democracy, which is crucial for preserving all state institutions.
The Council also addressed the issue of Islamist detainees, urging for a swift resolution based on justice and dignity, and for lifting the injustices inflicted upon them through realistic and serious procedures.