Former Progressive Socialist Party (PSP) leader Walid Joumblatt hosted a high-level meeting at his Beirut residence on Monday, bringing together Grand Mufti of the Republic Sheikh Abdel Latif Derian, regional muftis from across Lebanon, Lebanese Democratic Party (LDP) leader Talal Arslan, members of the Democratic Gathering parliamentary bloc and senior officials from the LDP.
The gathering, described by attendees as both “friendly and consultative,” comes amid heightened regional tensions, mainly between Druze and Sunnis in the Syrian region of Sweida, and domestic challenges.
Speaking after the meeting, Mufti Derian expressed his appreciation for the initiative, stating, “This meeting was friendly and consultative and will continue, God willing. May God preserve the harmony between us and Walid Beik forever.”
In a joint statement issued following the talks, participants stressed the importance of preserving national and Islamic unity in the face of mounting threats, both within Lebanon and across the region. They strongly condemned the recent deadly clashes in Syria’s Sweida province, denouncing what they called “attempts to sow discord among Syrian brothers,” and mourned the victims of the violence.
“We affirm our national and Islamic unity to confront all those who wish harm upon Lebanon and Syria,” the statement read. “We categorically reject any efforts to incite strife and mourn the martyrs who fell in these tragic events.”
The group also issued a call to all Lebanese political forces to unite in defense of the nation, urging them to work collectively toward strengthening state institutions, upholding national sovereignty and confronting ongoing Israeli aggressions in Lebanon, Syria and beyond.
“These attacks are part of broader sectarian, ethnic and racial projects that serve only the enemies of our countries and our Arab and Islamic nations,” the statement warned.
The attendees voiced satisfaction with what they described as the “wise and national positions” adopted by Lebanese factions calling for Syrian unity and stability, and reiterated their commitment to preserving Lebanon’s sovereignty, independence and freedom.
Finally, they underscored Lebanon’s role as a cultural and civilizational bridge in the Arab world, advocating for deeper cooperation with all Arab states and international partners who recognize and support Lebanon’s pivotal role in the region.
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