Lebanese opposition MPs call for immediate ceasefire with Israel

Lebanon’s opposition MPs have issued a public appeal calling for immediate action to prevent the country from descending further into conflict as Israel continues its bombardment of Lebanon.

A group of 12 MPs, including representatives from the Christian Lebanese Kataeb Party and Lebanese Forces, presented a unified vision for averting further devastation and rebuilding state institutions.

In a statement read by MP Michel Douaihy, they urged the Lebanese government to distance itself from regional conflicts and foreign interference.

"We call for an immediate ceasefire and the full implementation of UN Resolution 1701," Douaihy said, referencing the UN mandate for ceasefire and disarmament in southern Lebanon.

The opposition is pushing for Lebanon to reassert state control over decisions of war and peace, and for all weapons to be exclusively in the hands of the state in reference to Hezbollah.

They also called for the return of displaced Lebanese citizens to their homes, ensuring that "all Lebanese can live under the protection of a strong, sovereign, and just state."

The MPs also stressed the urgent need to elect a president. They demanded a parliamentary session be held immediately to elect a "reformist, sovereign president" who can uphold Lebanon’s constitution and restore its sovereignty. They also supported the formation of a cohesive government focused on constitutional enforcement, international resolutions, and initiating economic recovery.

Lebanon has been without a president since October 2022, and the political landscape remains deeply divided. The opposition bloc rejects Hezbollah’s alignment with Iranian-backed regional agendas, while Hezbollah advocates for the defence of Palestine and their insistence on linking the fates of Lebanon and Gaza.

Meanwhile, the possibility of Lebanese Army Commander Joseph Aoun emerging as a consensus candidate for the presidency has gained traction, with increasing international support. This comes as discussions continue among foreign powers, including Saudi Arabia, France, and the United States, regarding Lebanon’s political future.

The opposition also sees this as an opportunity to push for the disarmament of Hezbollah, particularly with international backing. However, Hezbollah remains firm, with Speaker Nabih Berri stating that support for their candidate, Sleiman Frangieh, remains steadfast despite the current political shifts.