Kataeb Political Bureau Warns Against Harboring Wanted Syrian Officials

The Kataeb Political Bureau held a virtual meeting, chaired by Party leader Samy Gemayel. After discussing the recent developments, the following statement was issued: 

1- With the fall of the criminal regime in Syria, a dark chapter in the history of Lebanon and the region has come to an end, along with decades of pain and suffering endured by the people of both nations.

In these pivotal times, this development adds to the list of opportunities that must be seized to move forward into a new era, free from the logic of sectarianism and incitement that once prevailed.

The Kataeb Political Bureau emphasizes that Lebanon must take decisive action and manage this phase in a manner that serves the interests of its citizens, striving for lasting security, peace, and stability.

Now more than ever, Lebanon needs to adopt a stance of neutrality, with all parties refraining from interfering in the affairs of others, especially after bearing heavy costs over the years that have hindered state-building and undermined its foundations.

2- The Kataeb Political Bureau has followed security reports regarding the possible presence of former Syrian regime leaders hiding in Lebanon, most notably Ali Mamlouk, who is wanted by the Lebanese judiciary for his alleged involvement in the bombings of Al-Taqwa and Al-Salam mosques. These reports also implicate several others accused of carrying out assassinations and bombings in Lebanon.

It calls on the authorities and security forces to investigate these claims, apprehend the suspects if their presence in Lebanon is confirmed, and enforce the judicial rulings issued against them.

3-  The Kataeb Political Bureau closely followed the release of abductees and detainees from Syria's death chambers, where they endured inhumane conditions that demanded the attention of international justice institutions to hold those responsible for such atrocities accountable.

This issue is a top priority for the Kataeb Political Bureau, which is actively gathering information about our colleague, Political Bureau member Boutros Khawand, along with more than 600 others.

It urges the Lebanese State to fulfill its responsibilities toward these individuals and ensure that the crisis cell formed yesterday operates effectively, avoiding the delays, procrastination, and bargaining tactics employed in previous eras.

Families of the disappeared have the right to know the fate of their loved ones, to see this file closed, and to receive legal compensation for years of suffering and pain.

In this context, the Kataeb Political Bureau stresses that any new chapter in the relationship between Lebanon and Syria must be built on a clear acknowledgment by the Syrian side of the wrongs committed against Lebanon and its people, accompanied by both moral and material reparations for the crimes of the former regime.

4- The Kataeb Political Bureau places great confidence in the role of the Lebanese Armed Forces  (LAF) at this pivotal moment, as Lebanon emerges from decades of oppressive tutelage.

It calls on the LAF to fulfill their crucial responsibilities in guiding the country toward a new phase by protecting its borders, safeguarding its security and stability, and fortifying it against any threats, whether external or internal.

5- With the presidential elections session set for January 9 fast approaching, some parties persist in backing divisive candidates, appearing to ignore the evolving realities in Lebanon and the region.

The Kataeb Political Bureau stresses that this inflexible and dismissive approach will inevitably hinder the electoral process, holding those who fail to recognize the changing circumstances accountable for the resulting deadlock.