Mr. Helou argues that Lebanon can transform from a battleground to a sovereign nation. With an upcoming presidential election following political paralysis, he emphasizes local agency in shaping Lebanon’s future as the Assad regime’s collapse in Syria offers a chance to redefine Lebanon’s relationships, particularly with Hezbollah and the Syrian refugee situation.
The current juncture presents a pivotal opportunity for Lebanon to transcend its historical status as a battleground and instead forge a path towards a united, functioning, and sovereign nation. Mr. Helou, the Secretary General of the Lebanese National Bloc, emphasizes that the future of Lebanon ultimately resides in its people’s hands. The imminent election for a president, following a two-year political standoff, represents a crucial first step in revitalizing the nation. Meanwhile, the recent developments in Syria, specifically the collapse of the Assad regime, signal a potential shift in Lebanon’s geopolitical landscape, particularly in its relationship with Hezbollah and its handling of the Syrian refugee crisis. As Lebanon seeks to stabilize and redefine its identity, it is essential to seize this moment for reform and reconciliation.
The historical context of Lebanon’s relationship with Syria is marked by decades of occupation and external interference that established a legacy of division and strife. The Assad regime, from 1976, exerted control over Lebanon, undermining its sovereignty through manipulation of political processes and support for corrupt practices. This occupation lasted until the early 2000s, when a re-emerging local political will and international pressure led to Syrian withdrawal. The subsequent rise of Hezbollah, aligned with Iranian interests, further complicated Lebanon’s political dynamics and stifled reform. Recently, the weakening of the Assad regime could potentially alter the external influences over Lebanon, thus allowing for renewed efforts in solidifying national governance and addressing pressing humanitarian concerns.
In conclusion, Lebanon stands at a crossroads. With an upcoming presidential election and recent shifts in regional power dynamics, there is a significant opportunity for the Lebanese people to reclaim their nation’s agency. By confronting the challenges posed by foreign influences and internal divisions, Lebanon has the potential to become a unified sovereign state, capable of addressing both political stagnation and the refugee crisis. It is imperative that the Lebanese seize this moment to foster a democratic environment conducive to long-lasting reform and stability.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
