Exclusive JNews Lebanon
Lebanon’s crowded political scene steps back today to make way for an extraordinary historic event blending Maronite heritage with national memory. All eyes turn toward the patriarchal summer residence in Dimane to witness a landmark milestone: the Beatification of Patriarch Elias Howayek, spiritual father and founder of Greater Lebanon.
The Godfather of the Nation at the Altar of Sainthood
In a solemn ceremony presided over by Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Béchara Boutros Rai, alongside a Vatican representative and a gathering of official and spiritual figures, the Maronite Church today consecrates a unique national legacy linking sanctity with patriotism. The Beatification of Patriarch Elias Howayek comes at a crucial moment to remind all Lebanese of their nation’s firm foundations. The man who drew the country’s borders now stands as a symbol of statehood and legitimacy, sending a clear message echoing from Lebanon to the diaspora: “An institutional state is our only salvation.”
Life Returns to Zautar al-Gharbiya.. Amid Efforts for an “Alternative Force”
Echoing this spiritual moment, life surged back into the South as residents of Zautar al-Gharbiya began returning to their homes under the close supervision of the Lebanese Army. Heavy traffic built up at the village entrances due to the high volume of returning families, prompting many to complete their journey on foot, eager to reach their homes and land.
Amid these developments on the ground, President Joseph Aoun delivered key remarks to European Union ambassadors. He affirmed that maintaining UNIFIL forces remains the optimal choice for now. However, he noted that should its mandate fail to be renewed at the UN Security Council, Lebanon will request the creation of an “alternative force” to support the army in clearing the South and removing unexploded ordnance. President Aoun also informed Prime Minister Nawaf Salam that his recent Washington meetings with President Donald Trump were “highly productive” and set the stage for renewed international support.
Jnews Exclusive: French Discontent in Paris.. and Urgent Files in Baghdad
On the diplomatic front, exclusive details obtained by “Jnews Lebanon” from the French capital reveal that the closed meeting between President Emmanuel Macron and leader Walid Joumblatt at the Élysée Palace carried subtle French frustration. Paris reportedly feels sidelined from the details of the Framework Agreement in favor of direct US mediation.
Sources revealed that Macron expressed concern to Joumblatt regarding operational loopholes in implementing the agreement on the ground, while reiterating France’s readiness to lend its diplomatic weight to lead a “Third Force” if requested by the international community.
“Government Sources to Jnews: Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s upcoming visit to Baghdad to meet Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi goes beyond formality; it carries urgent economic and energy portfolios aimed at securing a vital safety net for the upcoming reconstruction drive.”
