Beirut:Progressive Socialist Party (PSP) leader and Democratic Gathering bloc head MP Taymour Jumblatt emphasized the importance of dialogue in Lebanon, describing it as "not a sign of weakness, but a national necessity." He called for moderation to counteract extremism and division, and firmly rejected any attempts to involve Lebanon in another conflict.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Jumblatt made these remarks at the opening of a conference titled "State-Building and Strengthening Democracy A Trans-Mediterranean Socialist Youth Vision from Lebanon," organized by the Progressive Youth Organization. He warned that Lebanon is currently experiencing a challenging period characterized by increasing divisions and a rise in fear and hatred, which undermine dialogue and understanding.
Jumblatt expressed his party's support for negotiations with Israel, insisting that such talks should lead to tangible outcomes, including ending hostilities, Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territory, and respect for Lebanon's sovereignty. He rejected efforts to drag Lebanon into a new war, whether by Iran or any domestic entity, stressing that opposition to war is a matter of national responsibility, not a stance against any specific community.
He underscored that decisions regarding war and peace should solely rest with the Lebanese state, which should also hold exclusive authority over weapons. Jumblatt emphasized that achieving lasting stability requires justice and rebuilding trust between citizens and state institutions.
Additionally, Jumblatt called for the protection of depositors' rights, reform of the banking sector, and safeguarding judicial independence, labeling these actions as critical for restoring confidence and ensuring a secure future for young Lebanese in their country.
In his concluding remarks, Jumblatt highlighted the obligation to construct states capable of safeguarding their citizens and ensuring a future built on stability, peace, dignity, and justice. He urged Lebanese citizens to prevent differences from turning into hatred or political disagreements from undermining their shared humanity, reiterating the significance of dialogue and moderation in confronting extremism and division.
