Project Watan: A Final Opportunity for Lebanon Through Bold and Swift Decisions

Project Watan’s Executive Board held its weekly meeting, chaired by MP Neemat Frem and attended by all members. After a discussion of the latest developments on both the domestic and regional fronts, the Board issued the following statement:

• In light of the rapidly deteriorating trajectory of U.S.-Iranian relations, and the shift of the region from a climate of negotiations to one of heightened tension and potential warfare, Project Watan calls on all Lebanese officials and influential actors to safeguard the internal front and redouble efforts to shield Lebanon from the conflicts of regional axes.

In this context, Project Watan strongly condemns the repeated attacks on UNIFIL forces – as such incidents jeopardize the possibility of renewing their mandate – and reiterates its call to reinforce the presence of UNIFIL and to consolidate the role of the Lebanese Army, which remains the sole guarantor on the ground alongside them in the implementation of Resolution 1701. This would serve as a strong barrier against dubious schemes that could drag areas both north and south of the Litani River into the arena of confrontation and potentially open the door to scenarios of a renewed Israeli invasion.

• The participants believe that the six-month window granted to Lebanon – both by its people and the international community – is drawing to a close. All eyes are now on what direction the situation will take, particularly regarding the exclusive control of arms by the state and the urgent need to implement essential reforms across various sectors.

The Board warns against the consequences of ignoring the looming challenges, especially in light of Syria’s apparent shift toward openness to transformation and change. Continued delay will cost Lebanon its position in the race for recovery, leaving the country sidelined from regional dynamics and deprived of any potential gains. The Syrian experience proves that seizing opportunities depends on a favorable internal environment and on bold, swift decision-making.

• The Executive Board also addressed the ongoing crisis of waste piling up in the streets, stressing that this chronic issue must be resolved – once and for all – through a comprehensive solution that begins with the effective implementation of the decree establishing the National Authority for Solid Waste Management. This decree, published in the Official Gazette on January 16, 2025, has yet to be put into effect.

Project Watan further emphasizes the need to free municipalities from the administrative constraints currently imposed on them and to grant them decentralized powers that would allow for flexible, effective solutions tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of each region.

While this issue may not fall under major international dossiers such as nuclear negotiations, it nonetheless offers a clear reflection of the Lebanese state’s ability to manage its daily affairs. It is a genuine test of its commitment to the principles of good governance and sustainable development.