Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East has called for national unity in Lebanon, an end to hostilities, and stronger state institutions during a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the presidential palace in Baabda.

Speaking on behalf of the Holy Synod of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch, the patriarch expressed support for the president amid regional instability. He stressed that Lebanon must unite its religious and social communities and prevent the country from becoming an arena for confrontation between foreign powers.

Patriarch John X highlighted the historic role of the Antiochian Orthodox Church in bringing together Lebanon’s diverse communities. He reaffirmed the commitment of Orthodox Christians to peaceful coexistence with Muslims, emphasizing their determination to continue living and working in the country.

Addressing Lebanon’s security and humanitarian challenges, the patriarch called for an end to military operations, the return of displaced people to their homes, the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the reconstruction of affected areas. He also underscored the importance of strengthening the Lebanese Armed Forces as a guarantor of national sovereignty and security.

The patriarch also raised pressing domestic concerns, including the country’s economic crisis, the difficulties faced by depositors in Lebanese banks, and the need for justice in the investigation into the 2020 Beirut port explosion.

Patriarch John X further emphasized that Lebanon’s system of equal representation for Christians and Muslims remains a key foundation for coexistence. He pledged that the Church would continue to pray for President Aoun and all the people of Lebanon.

The meeting took place during the 16th session of the Holy Synod of the Antiochian Patriarchate, held at the Balamand Monastery. The synod’s agenda includes discussions on the situation of church dioceses in Lebanon and abroad.

Particular attention is also being given to the fate of two Orthodox metropolitans, Paul Yazigi and John Ibrahim, who were abducted in Syria in 2013. Their disappearance remains a major concern for the Antiochian Church.

The patriarch’s appeal comes amid continuing regional tensions and underscores the Church’s call for national solidarity, peaceful coexistence, and the strengthening of Lebanon’s sovereignty and state institutions.