Middle East Press on: Turkiye, Iran, Genocide, Lebanon, Christian: New Age Islam's Selection, 11 January 2025
By New Age Islam Edit Desk
11 January 2025
Long-Lasting Rivalry: Türkiye And Iran Confront New Realities
Amid Genocide, The Tide Is Turning On Palestine
Christian Student Leaders' Israel Trip Strengthens Interfaith Bonds Amid Crisis
Many Reasons For Optimism About Syria And Lebanon
A New Era And A Golden Opportunity For Lebanon
Uniting The Lebanese Is Aoun’s Most Important Mission
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Long-Lasting Rivalry: Türkiye And Iran Confront New Realities
By Cüneyd Er
Jan 11, 2025
The Treaty of Qasr-e Shirin, signed in 1639, set the borders between Türkiye and Iran. These borders have remained unchanged for centuries, enduring the rise and fall of empires, the chaos of wars and the shifts in regional power. While the geography has stayed the same, their relationship has often changed, sometimes gradually and at other times with great intensity. Now, as Syria moves into a new era after Bashar Assad’s removal, this historic balance faces new and serious challenges.
The rivalry between Türkiye and Iran has been one of the constants of the region, as enduring as the rivers that flow through their lands. This is a story of two empires – the Ottomans and the Safavids – whose ambitions clashed not only on the battlefield but also in the hearts and minds of their people. While the Ottomans looked west, the Safavids struck from the east, driven by their own sectarian and political goals.
However, their shared history does not involve all conflict. Along the Silk Road, merchants carried goods, ideas, and culture between them, building connections that overcame their differences. In cities like Istanbul and Isfahan, poets and scholars drew inspiration from each other’s work, even as their rulers prepared for the next war. This mix of rivalry and exchange still shapes their relationship today, a careful balance of suspicion and interdependence. As the region faces new and complex challenges, the choices these nations make will carry lessons from their shared past.
Iran’s growing problems
The removal of Bashar Assad and his Baath regime is a turning point for the region and a significant setback for Iran’s ambitions. Assad had been Iran’s most important ally in the Middle East, giving Tehran access to the Mediterranean and supporting its efforts to expand its influence through proxies like Hezbollah. With Assad gone, Iran’s strategy in Syria is in ruins.
Iran spent enormous resources to keep Assad in power by sending military aid, money and diplomatic support, but still could not save him. Militias backed by Iran, including Hezbollah, fought hard to hold key areas in Syria but ultimately failed. This is not only a strategic loss for Tehran but also a symbolic one. Assad’s fall challenges Iran’s position as a defender of Shiism in a region dominated by Sunni populations.
Iran’s actions in Syria have also brought widespread criticism. Its proxies have been accused of war crimes, such as indiscriminate attacks on civilians, blockades that caused starvation, and the forced displacement of entire communities. These acts, which violate international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions, have worsened Syria’s suffering and damaged Iran’s reputation around the world.
With Assad no longer in power, Iran’s influence in the region continues to decline. In Iraq, Tehran-backed militias are increasingly viewed as liabilities rather than assets as local populations grow more resistant to their presence. Beyond Iraq and Syria, the Iranian government must also turn its attention inward, where it faces mounting criticism for wasting resources in Syria while the economy falters and public protests intensify. Moreover, Assad’s removal has revealed the fragility of Iran’s network of proxies, leaving its broader regional strategy in turmoil.
Legal questions and NPT
Iran’s difficulties in Syria go beyond losing Assad. The behavior of its proxies raises serious legal issues. Actions such as starvation tactics, sectarian violence and indiscriminate attacks on civilians are considered war crimes under international law.
The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) requires accountability for such acts. However, neither Syria nor Iran is a member of the ICC, making it harder to pursue justice. Referrals to the ICC by the United Nations Security Council are often blocked due to political disagreements. Despite these obstacles, independent organizations have documented these crimes, keeping the possibility of future legal action alive.
Beyond the situation in Syria, Iran’s nuclear program remains a major concern. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which Iran has signed, prohibits the development of nuclear weapons. However, reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) suggest that Iran is moving closer to breaking its commitments.
While the NPT allows Iran to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, it does not permit the enrichment of uranium to levels near weapons-grade. This raises serious questions about Iran’s intentions. If Iran violates the treaty, it could face stricter international sanctions or coordinated action by the United Nations Security Council.
A nuclear arms race in the Middle East would destabilize an already fragile region and undermine decades of efforts to limit the spread of nuclear weapons.
Rivals at crossroads
Centuries ago, a merchant stood on a dusty road near the border between Türkiye and Iran. He paused, torn between memories of past betrayals and hopes for future trade. Cautiously, he decided to move forward. Today, Türkiye and Iran face a similar choice.
For Türkiye, the aftermath of Assad’s removal offers both risks and opportunities. Iran’s declining influence could give Türkiye greater control over regional dynamics. At the same time, instability could spill over into neighboring areas, threatening Türkiye’s interests. Navigating this situation requires careful diplomacy and a strong focus on strategic priorities.
For Iran, the stakes are even higher. Losing Assad has drained its resources and damaged its credibility. Iran now faces a shrinking role in the region, rising domestic unrest, and growing economic struggles. Assad’s fall serves as a clear warning about the risks of overreach and failed strategies.
As Türkiye and Iran stand at this crossroads, the decisions they will make will have far-reaching consequences, not only for their futures but also for the stability of the Middle East. Their history is marked by rivalry and power struggles, with moments of uneasy coexistence shaped more by necessity than trust. Whether the coming years bring heightened tensions or a delicate balance will depend on their capacity to navigate shifting dynamics with a clear-eyed focus on their respective interests.
The road ahead is unclear, but one thing is certain: the decisions made now will leave a lasting mark on the region for generations.
https://www.dailysabah.com/opinion/op-ed/longlasting-rivalry-turkiye-and-iran-confront-new-realities
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Amid Genocide, The Tide Is Turning On Palestine
10 Jan 2025
The suffering of the Palestinian people, which began with the Nakba and the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948, reached brand new depths in the past 15 months. More than 46,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed and more than 110,000 injured in Israel’s continuing genocide in Gaza. More than ten thousand others are missing, arbitrarily detained, or known to be buried under the rubble of their destroyed homes. Israel’s relentless attacks have not spared homes, schools, and even hospitals in the besieged Strip. Hundreds of thousands of survivors, pushed out of their homes and into makeshift tents in so-called “safe zones”, are facing indiscriminate air strikes, daily massacres, disease outbreaks, hunger and harsh winter conditions with no end in sight to their misery. Palestinians in the occupied West Bank are also under attack from Israeli forces and lack most basic rights and freedoms.
Palestinians document the atrocities committed against their people by Israel one by one and share them with the world in real-time for everyone to see. South Africa has launched a genocide case against Israel at the World Court, backed by a large variety of countries including Mexico, Brazil and Turkiye. The ICC has also taken action against Israel, issuing arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. The global public is also clear in its support for Palestinians, with tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian protests, vigils and sit-ins held across the world, attracting support from millions of people from all walks of life, since the beginning of the genocide in October of 2023.
Despite all this, however, Israel appears able to continue its crimes openly and with impunity. This is because its Western supporters and benefactors, especially the United States, turn a blind eye to all of Israel’s excesses, and refuse to acknowledge – let alone punish – its blatant violations of international law.
Washington particularly, as the main supplier of arms, bombs and other military equipment to Israel, has not done anything to help end the genocide in the past 15 months. On the contrary, it has done everything in its power to shield Israel from accountability. For example, it has used its veto power four times, most recently on November 20, to prevent the UN Security Council from passing a resolution demanding a ceasefire. It also voted against the UN General Assembly resolution, supported by 154 member states, calling for an immediate end to Israel’s war on Gaza. It is also attempting to punish the ICC for issuing warrants against Israeli leaders, with the House of Representatives passing a bill to sanction the court.
As such, it seems as long as the US military, political and financial support for Israel continues, there is nothing supporters of Palestine can do to bring the suffering of the Palestinian people to an end or ensure that their basic human rights are respected.
Thankfully, however, the past 14 months were not marked only by losses and disappointment. Supporters of Palestine have also scored important political, legal and electoral victories in this time. Most importantly, despite the world’s inability to put an end to Israel’s genocide and lawless occupation, the Palestinian cause has more support in the global public square today than ever before. Israel is becoming a pariah. And this matters.
Indeed, even in America, where politicians seem committed to protecting Israel at any cost, people have regularly taken to the streets to demand an end to the brutal war on Gaza’s population. American universities, from coast to coast, have been taken over by Gaza solidarity encampments. While most of these protests were crushed with force with many of their participants severely punished, they still managed to show the world that American people do not support genocide. They also made American people pay attention to what their country is funding in Gaza and helped shift the public opinion against the genocide.
In Western Europe, another traditional support base of Israel, Palestine has also started receiving unprecedented support at both official and grassroots levels.
Sure, the European dependence on the US and Israel’s historic ties to and extensive lobbying investment in most European nations, means official support for Israel’s war is still strong on the continent.
The German government, for example, has been unwavering in its support for Israel since the very beginning of the genocide, and to this day supports and defends all actions of the Netanyahu government.
But pro-Palestinian and anti-genocide voices gained significant prominence across Europe’s political, legal, media, entertainment and economic sectors, as well as in unions, academia and among students, gradually moving several European governments and leading institutions to stand for international law and Palestinian human rights.
According to the data gathered by the European Palestinian Information Center (EPAL), there have been more than 26,000 demonstrations and other activities in support of Palestinian rights in 619 cities across 20 European countries during the first year of the genocidal Israeli war on Gaza.
In response to this growing call for justice in Palestine coming from the European public, European governments are starting to slowly show support for the struggle. Belgium, Ireland and Spain officially sided with South Africa in the genocide case against Israel. Spain and Ireland also recognised the Palestinian state, bringing the number of EU nations to do so to 10. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for an arms export halt and the UK has suspended some licences. Ireland has been so vocal in its condemnation of the genocide that Israel has recently decided to close its embassy in the country.
In electoral politics, despite the over all rise of the right and obvious successes of right-wing parties in various elections, supporters of Palestine have also made significant gains across several European countries in the past year.
The French national elections held in mid-2024, for example, saw the left-wing France Unbowed, whose leader Jean-Luc Melenchon played a key role in organising pro-Palestine demonstrations in the country, emerge victorious. The pro-Palestinian party also secured 11 seats in the European Parliament.
Pro-Palestine voices also made important gains in the European Parliamentary elections. Sweden’s Left Party, for example, which enjoys strong support from Sweden’s Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim minorities due to its active advocacy for Palestine, gained two seats. Denmark also elected several vocally pro-Palestine representatives.
In the United Kingdom, where weekly demonstrations calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the occupation attracted tens of thousands of people, five pro-Palestinian candidates – including former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn – won seats in last year’s parliamentary elections. These MPs later formed a parliamentary grouping dubbed “Independence Alliance” and started pressuring Keir Starmer’s Labour government to support a ceasefire in Gaza and condemn Israel’s war crimes.
In Austria, pro-Palestine candidates participated in the September national election under the name “Gaza list: Voices against genocide” after securing enough endorsements to get their names on the ballot in seven out of nine states. They not only managed to bring attention to the genocide in Gaza within the Austrian political conversation, but actually secured nearly 20,000 votes in the election, showing the growing strength of pro-Palestinian voices in the traditionally pro-Israel nation.
Those fighting for justice in Palestine also secured important legal victories in the past year.
In Italy, supporters of Palestinian rights won a case in the Supreme Court of Appeal against the Italian state television network, “Rai”, which had incorrectly referred to Jerusalem as the capital of Israel in a news bulletin. The judge ruled that Rai must publicly correct its mistake in a subsequent bulletin, stating that Jerusalem is not the capital of Israel.
Meanwhile, anti-genocide activists filed a lawsuit against the Dutch government to halt arms exports to Israel in light of its conduct in Gaza. The Dutch state television aired the court proceedings live, which raised significant awareness among the Dutch public about the country’s role in facilitating Israel’s genocidal war.
Another prominent legal action in support of Palestine was the cases filed by the Hind Rajab Foundation, established in Belgium last September, at the ICC and several local courts against Israeli soldiers who took part in the Gaza genocide.
The foundation, named after the six-year-old Palestinian girl killed by Israeli tank fire in Gaza as she was stuck in a car filled with the dead bodies of her relatives, sent to the ICC a list containing the names of a thousand Israeli soldiers suspected of taking part in war crimes in the besieged Strip. The foundation collected evidence against the accused Israeli soldiers through various means, including their personal social media pages, where they boasted about committing crimes against Palestinian civilians in Gaza.
The foundation has also been tracking the movements of Israeli soldiers in foreign countries and filing cases against them in local courts. It located and filed complaints against suspected war criminals vacationing in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Belgium, the Netherlands, Serbia, Ireland, Cyprus and most recently Sweden. The actions of the foundation pushed Israel to instruct its soldiers to tread carefully when planning vacations abroad, and strengthened its international pariah status.
Meanwhile, The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement also had significant success in curtailing support for Israel in the past year.
According to a Reuters analysis published in November, several of Europe’s biggest financial firms have reduced their links to Israeli companies or those with ties to the country, due to pressures from activists and governments to end the war in Gaza. According to UN Trade and Development data, overall foreign direct investment into Israel fell by 29 percent in 2023 to its lowest since 2016.
In short, while the global community has not yet been successful in bringing an end to Israel’s crimes, relentless advocacy by activists from around the world has brought us closer than ever to achieving justice for the Palestinian people. Israel’s genocide in Gaza, committed in plain sight and documented in great detail, has greatly changed public perceptions of the Israel-Palestine conflict around the world. Even if the US does not seem any closer to abandoning its support for the settler colony, the international opinion is rapidly shifting in favour of Palestine.
The tide is undoubtedly changing, but the fight is far from over. It is imperative that Palestinians and their supporters continue exposing the truth about Israel’s war crimes, illegal occupation, and ethnic cleansing operations, until Palestine is free and Israel has been held accountable for the many crimes it committed and continues to commit against the long-suffering Palestinian people.
https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2025/1/10/amid-genocide-the-tide-is-turning-on-palestine
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Christian Student Leaders' Israel Trip Strengthens Interfaith Bonds Amid Crisis
By Evan Bernstein
January 11, 2025
Embarking on a journey with Christian student leaders from Passages Israel over the Hanukkah holiday was an eye-opening experience, reinforcing for me the profound connection between the Christian faith and the people of Israel.
This trip, rich in both Christian and Jewish historical and contemporary experiences, has illuminated the pivotal role that education and direct engagement play in fostering a deep, enduring relationship between Christians and Jews.
Their shared story with us is not merely a historical narrative but a living, dynamic testament to our common values and aspirations. Throughout history, Jews and Christians have intertwined paths, and today, we need to continue to stand together, advocating for the rights of the Jewish people to live and prosper in their ancestral homeland.
Our trip underscored this commitment, revealing that their support is not just ideological but also deeply personal and practical. One of the most inspiring aspects of the trip was witnessing the passion and curiosity of the student leaders regarding domestic antisemitism and the complexities of supporting Israel.
Their probing questions at meals or on the bus and constant thirst for knowledge were not only impressive but also crucial. They demonstrated an earnest desire to understand the intricacies of Israel, Jewish culture, and the persistent challenges posed by current antisemitism.
Visiting October 7 locations
Visiting locations, such as Kibbutz Kfar Aza and the site of the Supernova music festival, where the October 7 massacres by Hamas took place, was a sobering reminder and put a face to the current ongoing threats Israel contends with. These experiences were further punctuated when we found ourselves seeking refuge in bomb shelters as a ballistic missile targeted Jerusalem in the early morning hours during the trip.
These tense moments highlighted not only the constant vigilance required but also the resilience and unity intrinsic to the Israeli way of life. This trip was more than a journey through Christian and Jewish physical spaces; it was an exploration into the heart of what it means to be allies dedicated to peace and human flourishing.
It impressed upon me the necessity of dialogue, context, and openness in helping promote, build, and support the next generation of pro-Israel Christian leaders across North America.
As we look to the future, it is clear that the strength of Christian faith and leadership in America is intertwined with our relationship with Israel. By nurturing their biblical roots and exposing them to the realities of modern Israel, groups like Passages are fostering a robust dialogue that will enable them to lead Judeo-Christian relations with conviction and clarity in the years to come.
In conclusion, this journey has been a testament to the power of experiential learning and the indelible impact it can have on the hearts and minds of future leaders from all faith backgrounds. We must continue to provide these transformative opportunities to as many non-Jewish leaders as possible, ensuring that the bond between our communities remains strong and resilient against the challenges of tomorrow.
Now more than ever, our community relations work at Jewish Federations across North America must focus on strengthening our interfaith work collectively and helping our communities develop targeted key relationships that have shared values.
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-836852
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Many Reasons For Optimism About Syria And Lebanon
Faisal J. Abbas
January 10, 2025
They say all good things come to an end, and surely the same argument applies to bad things too. At least this is what we have noticed recently in both Syria and Lebanon.
In December, Syrians got rid of the brutal Assad regime, which governed with terror, torture, and tyranny for over five decades. The regime was replaced by a transitional government led by Ahmad Al-Sharaa, previously known as Abu Mohammed Al-Golani, leader of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham.
Yesterday, Lebanon — another failed Arab state — elected a president, Gen. Joseph Aoun, after a two-year vacuum, its first freely elected head of state since 1990, with no influence or pressure from the Syrian regime or from Hezbollah.
Yes, it could be argued that the rise of both Al-Sharaa and Aoun was a direct result of a weakened Iranian proxy influence in the Levant. However, a power vacuum does not always guarantee the rise of a better alternative. In fact, in many cases throughout history, it has brought chaos and even worse regimes.
It is too early to judge the new leaders of Syria and Lebanon by their actions. But at least when it comes to their words, one cannot help but raise one’s hat to the truly refreshing pledges and reassuring promises made by both Al-Sharaa and Aoun.
Al-Sharaa, who many feared would turn Syria into an ideological Islamist state given his background, has taken everyone by surprise by pledging inclusivity, guaranteeing minority rights, and saying that the West has nothing to fear from Syria. He even went on to say that the country is in no condition to wage wars and wants to focus on reconstruction and rebuilding.
Even though Al-Sharaa technically has absolute power, he was adamant to repeat during several media interviews that he would leave legislation to the legislators, and called for an urgent national dialogue to ensure a new constitution is written.
Not too long after that, Aoun was elected as president. Not wasting any time, he immediately made his mandate clear: “Lebanon will no longer be a country for mafias, drug trafficking, or money laundering.” A reassuring message to Gulf and Arab countries.
He also made it clear that he would not negotiate on Lebanese sovereignty. Only the state will bear arms and only the army has the right to protect Lebanese borders, and he will stand up to any Israeli intrusions. This is a direct message to any militants or so-called resistance groups that decide to take the law into their own hands.
For the Lebanese themselves, they heard exactly what they needed to hear: “If one of us falls, we all fall. There will be no immunity for criminals or corrupt individuals. No interference in the judiciary.”
Perhaps in the Middle East, we — rightly — believe that actions speak louder than words, considering we have been disappointed many times in the past. However, nobody can deny that, for now, the words from both Al-Sharaa and Aoun are exactly what we have waited a long time to hear.
Their actions must follow suit, but if both leaders are sincere and committed to their vision, it is very clear that they will get full support from Riyadh and beyond.
What is also reassuring is that in both cases, Syria and Lebanon, it is virtually impossible for what comes next to be worse than what was. For now, we can rejoice that the leaders of both countries are at least sounding like true statesmen, and for that they deserve for us to wish them the best of luck.
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2585922
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A New Era And A Golden Opportunity For Lebanon
Khalaf Ahmad Al-Habtoor
January 10, 2025
The election of Gen. Joseph Aoun as president of Lebanon marks the dawn of a new era, one brimming with hope for a nation burdened by decades of compounded crises.
This election is not merely a step toward ending a prolonged constitutional vacuum, it is also the beginning of a pivotal phase loaded with both challenges and opportunities, demanding wise leadership and a clear vision to achieve security and prosperity for Lebanon.
From the outset, Aoun has demonstrated that he is a leader of transparency and clarity. His words after he took the oath were devoid of the usual diplomatic platitudes, and reflected an honest character and a deep love of his country. His vision is precise, and his goals are firmly set, prioritizing the restoration of security and rebuilding Lebanon’s institutions on solid foundations that serve its people and deliver justice.
In his address, Aoun emphasized the importance of restoring the state’s authority and reinforcing its sovereignty — essential foundations for building a secure future. His discourse on institutional reform underscored his commitment to strengthening the state and restoring public trust. Furthermore, he highlighted the significance of national unity and the vital role of youth in driving change, offering hope for Lebanon’s revival through the participation of all its components.
Lebanon today faces numerous predicaments, but these very challenges could be a launchpad for reconstruction. Rebuilding trust between the state and its people requires tangible steps to combat corruption and enhance transparency — principles that Aoun reinforced when he said: “Lebanon will only rise through the hands of its loyal citizens.”
Moreover, the implementation of international mandates — such as UN Security Resolutions 1559 and 1701, which require, among other things, the withdrawal of foreign forces from Lebanon and the disarmament of Hezbollah — will be crucial in establishing stability and distancing Lebanon from regional power struggles. Aoun’s firm stance that Lebanon “will not be a battleground for settling scores” renews hope for a sovereign and independent national future, free from regional tensions.
At this pivotal juncture in Lebanon’s history, appointing a competent prime minister is an urgent priority. This individual must possess both economic expertise and integrity, someone capable of spearheading economic reform and attracting investments to restore trust in state institutions. Such an appointment will lay the groundwork for a comprehensive plan to return Lebanon to a path of growth and stability.
Lebanon has always been a beacon of culture, diversity, and tolerance, and, God willing, it will reclaim its rightful place. Aoun recognizes the essential role of Gulf nations in supporting Lebanon’s renaissance and has called upon them to return and invest in its economic recovery. This call is not solely economic: it is an expression of gratitude and appreciation for the vital role the Gulf has historically played in Lebanon’s development.
As one of Lebanon’s largest investors and a lifelong admirer of this beautiful country, I echo the president’s invitation. I urge Arab, Gulf, and capable Lebanese investors to seize this opportunity to contribute to Lebanon’s reconstruction. I am confident that this appeal will be met with enthusiasm and support. With the united efforts of all who cherish Lebanon, we can transform challenges into opportunities and restore its status as a hub for investment and culture.
Aoun’s election is a landmark moment in Lebanon’s history. His honest leadership and transparent approach inspire hope for a brighter future. However, realizing this hope requires collective effort and serious action.
Lebanon deserves the best, and with firm leadership and the support of its people and allies, a nation worthy of its history and stature can be rebuilt. Let this new era be a golden opportunity for a fresh start, and let us always remember that hope is built on action and dedication.
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2585954
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Uniting The Lebanese Is Aoun’s Most Important Mission
Khaled Abou Zahr
January 10, 2025
After a heated parliamentary debate, army chief Joseph Aoun was on Thursday elected as Lebanon’s president, more than two years after the post was last occupied. This is not the first time the head of the military has become the country’s president — this was also the case with Emile Lahoud and Michel Suleiman. Even Aoun’s predecessor, Michel Aoun (no relation), was formerly in the military role, but well before the start of his presidency.
Despite this being positive news, Lebanon now needs to break free of the cycles of the past that have drowned it in chaos and mediocrity. The new president needs to ask some tough questions: How can his mandate change the situation in Lebanon for the better? How can he make sure to enhance people’s daily lives? How can he reduce security risks? How can he turn around the economic situation? How can he rebuild the country and keep it this way? This is not his responsibility alone and now we can also add to the mix the need for a prime minister, but the questions will still be the same. One thing is certain: keeping the old system afloat will leave Lebanon as a small ship lost at sea, being hit by waves and navigating aimlessly.
This is why Joseph Aoun needs to be courageous enough to push ahead with an agenda of transforming the country. There needs to be a new vision, strategy and political roadmap. If his election was once again a result of a regional equilibrium, the switch needs to happen so that foreign support and collaborations are solicited for the building of the state and not to solve domestic problems. Regional actors understand this need more than international ones and know that this is the real change that is expected. The “Libanization” of the political process is the slogan to follow.
Hence, Aoun needs to propose a national dialogue for the transformation of the country. The status quo in the operation of the institutions needs to be stopped. There needs to be a complete overhaul of the state and the way it serves its people. Lebanon needs a new constitution and better management of the state apparatus.
It is more the symbol of the president that is needed than its actual constitutional role. A president who will do the same as his predecessors will be leading the country over the precipice. Hence, Aoun should initiate a national dialogue and present real plans for reform, focusing on constitutional and structural changes. This must start with the security and geopolitical stability of the country. This is why sovereignty needs to be reasserted.
Regardless of the deadlines and the outcome of the military confrontation with Israel, Hezbollah still has enough weapons to continue threatening the Lebanese. It is even, as expected, hinting at a repeat of May 7, 2008, when its forces invaded Beirut, if the political pressure increases. This cannot be permitted to happen again, simply because, this time, the reaction will come from beyond the borders of Lebanon and will lead to a sectarian conflict of extreme violence. It will throw Lebanon into a no-man’s-land of military confrontation.
Moreover, Lebanon can no longer claim or say that it is a hostage of Hezbollah. The new president, as a symbol of the country, will need to rally the population to massively push the demand that Hezbollah immediately disarms. Reminiscent of the great crowds that forced the Syrian military out in 2005, it is time to finish the job and eradicate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ influence in Lebanon. This is a historic opportunity.
It is also urgent to do so. I recently watched a viral social media clip of Lebanese children from different minorities debating about the country. From all sides, these children are being robbed of their childhoods and thrown into confrontation and biased thinking. It is another generation that is being pushed to the edge. Notably, the most worrying element is the indoctrination and recruitment of youth that is being pushed by Hezbollah. The minorities that constitute Lebanon are so entrenched in their own culture that it has become difficult to envision a nation. And this truth came from these children.
When watching this clip, I felt sad for a child who had lost his father, who was part of Hezbollah, and had been brainwashed into saying that his goal was to be a martyr and that he was already undergoing military training. How can we let this dangerous indoctrination happen? How can we let our children see death as an objective of life? We need to stop allowing extremism to be taught and be the culture of the country. A transformation into pursuing happiness and prosperity needs to take place.
We can say whatever we want, but ultimately Lebanon’s failure is our fault and no one else’s. No longer can we hide behind geopolitical shifts or find excuses in being the confrontation playground of international powers. This is the time to change how the country shapes its future. We are at a crossroads and this time we can either hold our mandate or let it slip away like in the past.
This is the most important mission that Joseph Aoun should initiate. The mission is to bring the people together for the true independence of Lebanon and to defeat the enemies from outside and within who do not want to see this happen. I believe this is a make-or-break situation — yes, it can always get worse — for the country. International powers need to support this transformation and no other. I hope that, when we listen to children 10 or 15 years from now, they will have been granted the simple right of being children and nothing else. Moreover, the cedar flag will have their sole and exclusive loyalty.
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2585953
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