Carole Salloum, “Akhbar al-Yawm” agency

The “Iftar” Returns to Baabda Palace: A Symbol of Unity and Strategic Vision

A pivotal event that will convey a series of significant signals

On March 20, the Presidential Palace will host the traditional Ramadan Iftar, a longstanding event customarily organized by the President of the Republic. This tradition has remained uninterrupted except in cases of exceptional circumstances, force majeure, or a presidential vacuum. With the election of President General Joseph Aoun, the event returns to Baabda and is expected to gather prominent political, religious, and diplomatic figures, in accordance with established protocol.

Beyond its symbolic national significance, highlighted by the diversity of its participants, the event takes on added importance due to the statements the President may deliver during his address.

Since President Aoun’s election, the renewed prestige of the Presidential Palace has been evident, and this Iftar will reflect that atmosphere. His administration’s new approach to governance has already manifested in a series of strategic measures, underscoring a clear vision for leadership and institutional conduct, according to sources cited by the “Akhbar Al-Yawm” agency.

These sources emphasize that the Iftar provides an opportunity for dialogue, and the President’s remarks will likely align with the key positions he has articulated in recent meetings with various Lebanese and international interlocutors.

As for the possibility of a new initiative being announced on this occasion, the matter remains uncertain. While President Aoun laid out a comprehensive roadmap in his inaugural address, any specific call for unity would be at his discretion, making speculation premature.

From an organizational perspective, all necessary arrangements are being made to ensure that the Iftar serves as a unifying occasion, in line with the President’s vision. This marks the second major gathering of his tenure, following the mandatory parliamentary consultations, and comes at a time when the Presidential Palace has been actively receiving Arab, foreign, and local delegations.

The same sources highlight that bringing together Lebanon’s diverse political and sectarian components under the roof of Baabda Palace is a welcomed step. This Iftar is set to be a key milestone, particularly in light of the President’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia, as attention now turns to the policy measures he intends to implement both domestically and internationally.

This will not be an ordinary Iftar. As the first of President Joseph Aoun’s tenure, it is expected to signal key political directions and set the tone for the coming phase.