Lebanon’s Sovereignty Hinges on Amplifying Voices That Love Their Country
Lebanon’s political system, deeply sectarian and dysfunctional, must be reformed to represent the will of the people—not just the leaders of sectarian factions.
Lebanon was once regarded as the "Switzerland of the Middle East." The country has long been admired for its vibrant culture, rich history, and geographical beauty. Yet, in recent decades, the country has faced growing political, social, and economic instability, much of it fueled by internal divisions and external pressures. For Lebanon to become a symbol of success, tourism, and economic development again, we must explore solutions that rise above sectarianism and foreign agendas. If Lebanon can break free from the cycle of being used as a pawn in other countries’ wars and break free from Hezbollah’s weakening grip—it has a chance to change its future and, by extension, the future of the region due to its cultural and entrepreneurial influence.
The solution for Lebanon lies in the hands of those who care about the country’s future. These are individuals and groups not motivated by sectarian interests or driven by the military ambitions of countries like Iran and Israel. Instead, they are people with a vision for a truly sovereign Lebanon—one that integrates itself back into the region as a peaceful nation, capable of fostering economic growth and tourism without posing a threat to any of its neighbors. This change has to come from within. The lessons of the Iraq war and subsequent conflicts have made it painfully clear that we cannot bomb freedom and democracy into countries. They have to want it and see it come to fruition for themselves; the good news is, so many Lebanese people believe in that vision.
Let’s take voices like Dr. Saleh Al Mashnouq's, for example. Dr. Mashnouq is a prominent Lebanese political figure and intellectual who is regularly quoted in Lebanese and regional media. He is known for his direct approach and social media savvy. Dr. Mashnouq, along with other Lebanese thinkers and activists, has long upheld the idea that Lebanon's prosperity lies in unity, democracy, and the return to its identity as a neutral state, free from foreign interference and internal strife. He has articulated these sentiments well, and people trust him.
Ronnie Chatah, whose father was killed in a car bombing attributed to Hezbollah, wrote an article in the wake of the leader of the terror group’s elimination titled, "Hassan Nasrallah: The Killing of a Killer" in New Lines Magazine. Chatah reflects on Lebanon's tumultuous history under Hezbollah’s dominance and the impact of its leader, Hassan Nasrallah. Chatah criticizes Nasrallah for subordinating Lebanon to external powers, especially Iran, and reflects on the violence that has shaped Lebanon, including the assassination of his father, Mohamad Chatah. The piece culminated with the announcement of Nasrallah's death, reflecting on Lebanon's unresolved wounds and continued sacrifices.
Chatah has often mentioned in frequent interviews that "Lebanon needs a new generation of leaders, untainted by warlordism and corruption, to break free from the past." He is a rising star both in Lebanese and international media.
The Lebanese people have seen firsthand the devastation caused by allowing the country to be used as a pawn by regional powers. Hezbollah’s dominance, aligned with Iran’s interests, has not only brought conflict but also isolated Lebanon from many regional and international opportunities. Hezbollah’s entrenchment in Lebanese politics, economics, and military affairs has led to violence, war, and economic stagnation. Those who yearn to start a business, reject extremism, and invest in improving their communities have their voices drowned out by bombs or more radical, powerful actors.
Iran is not the only country that has sought to manipulate Lebanon for its own ends. In the 1980s and 90s, the South Lebanese Army (SLA), backed by Israel, also operated as a foreign proxy force, working with Israel to control parts of southern Lebanon. The SLA, supported militarily and financially by Israel, collaborated in fighting not only Lebanese forces but also Palestinian refugees living in Lebanon. During this time, many Lebanese civilians and Palestinians suffered under the violence of the SLA, adding to the country's deepening divisions and furthering foreign interference in Lebanon’s affairs.
Both Hezbollah and the South Lebanese Army are striking examples of how foreign interests have abused Lebanese soil and its people for their geopolitical agendas. These external players have caused untold harm, with Lebanese citizens and Palestinian refugees paying the price of their ambitions and, most importantly, stripping Lebanon of its independence and agency.
For Lebanon to move forward, the first step must be the restoration of national sovereignty. This means diminishing the influence of foreign-backed militias and strengthening state institutions. In order for Hezbollah to be deposed, a better alternative must stand ready to take its place. Lebanon’s political system, deeply sectarian and dysfunctional, must be reformed to represent the will of the people—not just the leaders of sectarian factions. A national dialogue that includes voices from all walks of life, particularly those who advocate for non-sectarian governance, is crucial.
This change doesn’t have to happen overnight as the country remains at war, but sovereignty free from Hezbollah should be the guiding star of what the people in Lebanon strive toward. They cannot do it without support.
The aspirations of Lebanon's youth, entrepreneurs, and thinkers need to be heard and amplified to create policies that foster economic development and entrepreneurship. Traditional international aid and development structures have failed the Lebanese people time and time again. To see Lebanon succeed, its citizens must be empowered to change their societies on their terms. I have spoken with dozens of them, and they all say the same thing:
Nassib Ghobril, the head of economic research and analysis at Byblos Bank in Beirut, said, "Lebanon’s competitive advantages lie in its geographical location, openness, and services sectors. For Lebanon to thrive, it must leverage its historic role as a regional hub for trade, investment, and tourism, fostering closer economic ties with its neighbors."
Lebanon must seek economic integration with its regional neighbors through trade, investment, and tourism. The country’s geographical position and historical openness to the world make it a natural hub for business and tourism. By becoming a peaceful and stable nation, Lebanon can leverage its assets—such as its beautiful coastlines, cultural diversity, and intellectual capital—to attract international investment and tourism. Hezbollah’s presence has hamstrung these efforts and intimidation of local journalists and commentators who dream of a better Lebanon. The current moment presents a unique opportunity for the Lebanese people to seize autonomy and build a flourishing, lasting economy that benefits itself and its neighbors. The country’s untapped potential should not be underestimated.
The only viable solution for Lebanon requires a national commitment to rejecting sectarianism and foreign agendas. Lebanon's future must be built on unity, economic development, and peaceful coexistence within the region. Voices like Saleh Al Mashnouq, Ronnie Chatah, and others advocating for an inclusive and prosperous Lebanon offer a roadmap to that future. By empowering these inspiring leaders and supporting their vision, Lebanon can once again become a force for good in the Middle East.
Imagine how prosperous Lebanon could be if it rid itself of foreign proxies and made peace with Israel. The collaboration on all technological, medical, agricultural, educational, and financial fronts would help Lebanon’s economy and society surge. The subsequent tourism would be phenomenal. Get leadership committed to lifting the well-being of its citizens, de-radicalize the radicalized, and stop allowing Hezbollah and Iran from holding Lebanon hostage!