Muslim Scholars Gathering calls for Lebanese unity against Israeli occupation

The Muslim Scholars Gathering issued a statement calling for Lebanese political forces and the state to unite against Israeli occupation and violations of Lebanese sovereignty. The group characterized rhetoric regarding a ‘Greater Israel’ from Israeli leaders, including Benjamin Netanyahu, as a clear expansionist project threatening the sovereignty and territorial integrity of various regional nations, including Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine.

The Gathering highlighted concerns raised by Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri regarding Israeli intentions toward Lebanon, specifically concerning the future of UNIFIL forces in the south. They warned that any attempts to weaken stability in the border regions aim to leave Lebanon vulnerable to expansionist ambitions.

Additionally, the statement addressed US economic pressure and sanctions on Iran, viewing them as efforts to force Tehran to abandon its regional positions. The group supported the stance of Iranian officials, such as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who seek guarantees to prevent repeated aggression rather than a mere temporary ceasefire.