Beirut: In a statement responding to what it described as an 'attack' by Sheikh Ahmad Qabalan against Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, the World Maronite Union emphasized the need to uphold respect for the head of the Maronite Church and protect his position from any form of direct or indirect insult.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the Union rejected what it called 'baseless assumptions' underlying the criticism of the Patriarch, stating that such rhetoric is unacceptable, especially from someone claiming to represent a respected religious community that is an essential part of Lebanon's social fabric.
The Union accused certain factions of having surrendered their decision-making to a regional regime that seeks to dominate its neighbors through force, sabotage, and illicit trade.
The statement underscored that Patriarch al-Rahi's stance on the issue of arms and the recent government decision reflects the view of the majority of the Lebanese people.