Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Gebran Basil addressed displaced persons during a dinner held at "Batrouniyat," saying:
"We understand the urgency of the situation and the moment. For us, Eid is a symbol of hope, renewal, and looking toward the future. We want next year to celebrate Eid while standing tall and steadfast on our land, returning to our homes and our land. Lebanon is ours, this homeland is ours, and we will fight to preserve it."
He added:
"Everywhere in Lebanon, you should feel at home. This is our duty as Lebanese toward one another. No matter our political differences, you are, in the end, Lebanese, living your Lebanese identity, proving it through your sacrifices, your livelihoods, and your work to protect your land. We can only stand by you."
Basil emphasized:
"It is the responsibility of the state and government to ensure your return and provide temporary housing that is dignified and safe. You also have the responsibility to maintain security and not give anyone any excuse to claim that your presence poses a threat through your actions, words, or conduct."
He continued:
"Some search for excuses, there are external agencies, and internal hands will seek to stir strife. Here, the only response to incitement is patriotic discourse."
Basil pointed out:
"Sectarian incitement is ongoing. You have responsibilities, and we have responsibilities to prevent it. The equation is simple: Lebanon is your Lebanon, the land is your land, wherever you are, your homes and hearts are open. You will return to your homes, and it is the state’s responsibility to provide a dignified return and housing."
He stressed:
"The state must not undertake permanent constructions wherever you reside, because any construction sends a negative message that you will remain outside your land. The positive message is that you intend to return to your homes and land, and any stay here is temporary. You should not accept anything else, nor should the state accept anything else."
Basil concluded:
"Hosting is our duty as Lebanese toward one another, and it is your duty toward those who welcomed you. Strife must be eliminated, and political disagreements are resolved by politicians, not by the people. We cannot burden people further by forcing them from their homes and causing them to bear the cost of wars, in addition to the hardships of living outside their homes."
He added:
"When a house is bombed in the south or the suburbs, these are our homes being targeted. Anyone rejoicing or demanding prolongation of the war and refusing a ceasefire does not understand their duties toward the citizens. This country is 10,452 square kilometers, and regardless of religion or sect, we must preserve our homeland in its entirety."
