Beirut: Prime Minister Nawaf Salam presided over the regular ministerial meeting at the Grand Serail to assess the latest military and political developments and formulate a comprehensive response plan addressing displacement and relief needs.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Information Minister Paul Morcos opened discussions by highlighting the rise in verbal abuse on social media. He outlined several awareness initiatives undertaken in collaboration with international partners, including UNESCO and the United Nations Development Programme. These initiatives aim to foster responsible use of online platforms, with Morcos emphasizing that any violations exceeding the bounds of free expression will be subject to criminal prosecution. Prime Minister Salam reiterated the commitment to judicial action against such violations.
The meeting also featured a report by the Defence Minister on recent military developments. The report detailed evacuations prompted by Israeli warnings and strikes near Lebanese Army and UNIFIL positions, which necessitated the repositioning of troops. Additionally, the Defence Minister addressed ongoing border control efforts with Syria. The Interior Minister provided an overview of security developments, focusing on incidents of celebratory gunfire and related casualties, and outlined enforcement measures and arrests made in response.
Displacement issues were a significant focus of the meeting, with the Social Affairs Minister and other relevant ministers presenting plans for shelter, funding, and relief efforts. The government is pursuing a dual approach to address online abuse, involving both awareness campaigns and legal action. This includes coordination with the Education Ministry and international organizations. Morcos also highlighted the urgency of passing a long-delayed media law, which contains provisions aimed at combating hate speech and mitigating its consequences.