This year marks the 25th anniversary of Lebanon’s Resistance and Liberation Day, coming at a time when the country has witnessed unprecedented transformations following the Al-Aqsa Storm conflict. Hezbollah, the first resistance group in the region to achieve a historic victory in 2000 by forcing the retreat of Israel’s occupation army—backed by global powers, chiefly the U.S.—has as become a model for resistance movements worldwide, including Palestinian factions. Since October 8, 2023, Hezbollah has made notable sacrifices in support of Gaza during this battle.
lebanese officials and political parties commemorated the liberation of southern Lebanon from Israeli occupation with statements honoring national resilience.
Nabih Berri, Speaker of Lebanon’s Parliament, paid tribute to those who answered their nation’s call 25 years ago through steadfastness and martyrdom.He hailed resistance fighters and martyrs whose sacrifices culminated in defeating Israeli aggression on May 25, 2000—a day now celebrated as Lebanon’s victory.
Berri linked yesterday’s electoral participation in southern regions to this legacy: “Freedom endures through loyalty and progress—achieved by those who upheld constitutional rights. The dignified democratic exercise we witnessed yesterday wouldn’t exist without that glorious liberation.” He congratulated Lebanese citizens for proving their commitment to both resistance and democracy.
“Lebanon’s joy will remain incomplete until all occupied lands are freed”
Najib Mikati, Lebanon’s prime Minister, stated on platform X: “Our party is partial while Zionist occupation persists.” He reaffirmed government commitments: (1) liberating all Lebanese territories per international law; (2) defending sovereignty against aggression; (3) reconstructing war-damaged areas with Arab/international support.
“Oppression only strengthens southerners’ resolve”
Sheikh Ali al-Khatib, Deputy Head of Lebanon’s supreme Islamic Shiite Council, commended electoral participation despite Israeli attacks: “Our peopel reaffirmed their dedication to land—sacrificing everything regardless of enemy brutality.” He stressed that pressure backfires by making communities more resolute. addressing authorities directly: ”The state must initiate reconstruction now while empowering municipalities financially.” his closing rebuke targeted collaborators with Israel: ”Resistance remains unbroken—yesterday’s votes were rejectionist slaps to them all.”
“Rebuilding war-torn areas is a national duty”
Major General Abbas Ibrahim, former Director-General of Lebanon’s General Security Directorate honored May 2000′s liberation but noted this year′s somber context post-war destruction calling urgent action restore south prioritize dignified returns asserting true freedom requires restored sovereignty over every inch land .
The Syrian Social Nationalist Party issued statement documenting history popular endurance during18-year occupation praising joint Army-resistance efforts liberate eastern mountains terrorists They saluted martyrs families reiterating current battles follow same path toward eventual full liberation .
The National Party urged government invest sovereign strengths secure prisoners release pledging conditional support during critical phase .
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