Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rai renewed his criticism of Iran's diesel tankers that Hezbollah imported, considering it a derogation of Lebanese sovereignty and dignity.
Following a meeting with President Michel Aoun at the Baabda Palace on Friday, Rai said: “We have hope that in the presence of a government, whose members are excellent and well-known, Lebanon will move forward again and restore a normal economic, financial, commercial, living and security life.”
Asked about the ministerial policy statement, the patriarch said: “The ministerial statement bore slogans that constitute the government’s action plan, and we give full confidence to the responsible authority… What concerns us is that the work focuses on serving the country and the Lebanese people…”
Regarding criticism during his recent sermon about Iranian diesel tanks that arrived in Lebanon, he said: “We are accustomed to tolerance and forgiveness, but that does not change my convictions.”
The patriarch added: “I spoke about Lebanese sovereignty… It is not allowed for diesel tankers to enter under the security authority of the Syrian army and Hezbollah. I called this a derogation of Lebanese sovereignty and dignity, and there is no longer any consideration for Lebanon. This is unacceptable… I cannot accept it.”
“I am a Lebanese, who believes that Lebanon has sovereignty, independence and dignity that must be respected. This is what I constantly demand, no matter what is said or written,” the patriarch underlined.
