Bkerke: Minister of Interior Brig. Gen. Ahmad Hajjar on Tuesday met with Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi in Bkerke, where discussions focused on national issues and the overall situation in the country.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the meeting highlighted several critical topics affecting Lebanese citizens. Brig. Gen. Hajjar briefed Patriarch Al-Rahi on the prevailing conditions in Lebanon, emphasizing the Patriarch's keen interest in maintaining national stability, security, and addressing the situation along the southern border. The discussions also covered the Lebanese state's efforts to overcome the economic crisis and address ongoing Israeli violations and occupation.
Hajjar further elaborated on the mechanisms for implementing the ministerial statement, particularly in extending state authority across all Lebanese territories and executing the army's strategic plans. On the topic of parliamentary elections, Hajjar affirmed a collective commitment from the Patriarch, the President, and the government to ensure the elections occur on schedule. He also underscored the Patriarch's endorsement of expatriates' voting rights, as witnessed in previous elections in 2018 and 2022.
In addressing the murder case of Elio Abi Hanna, Hajjar disclosed that significant progress had been achieved, with several suspects already in custody following decisive action by the President. He assured that additional perpetrators would be brought to justice and extended condolences to Abi Hanna's family, reaffirming that security forces were diligently working to ensure justice is served.