Rahi Calls for Amending Amnesty Law to Include Lebanese in Israel File
Bechara Boutros Rahi called for expanding Lebanon’s general amnesty law to include individuals mentioned in Article 2 of Law No. 194/2011, which addresses the situation of Lebanese nationals who took refuge in Israel.
Speaking during a Sunday Mass for the Feast of Our Lady of the Harvest held at the Patriarchal seat in Bkerke, Rahi stressed the importance of supporting Lebanon’s agricultural sector, describing farmers as essential pillars of national resilience and identity.
He highlighted the impact of recent conflicts on agricultural production and called on the state to compensate affected farmers, while emphasizing the need to protect agricultural land and support rural communities to prevent migration and land abandonment.
On the legislative issue, the Patriarch urged that the proposed general amnesty law include the cases covered under the 2011 legislation, noting that the law has remained unimplemented due to the absence of executive decrees.
Rahi concluded by praying for Lebanon’s recovery, urging unity, justice, and reforms, and calling for renewed hope amid the country’s ongoing economic and political challenges.
