Salam from Dubai: Ending Lebanon’s Dual Weapons Era to Restore Sovereignty

Lebanon rises from crisis

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam delivered a compelling speech at the Arab Media Summit held in Dubai, addressing the evolving role of media and Lebanon’s current trajectory toward reform and recovery. Speaking to an audience of regional media leaders and policymakers, Salam stressed that media is no longer just a passive mirror reflecting reality, but a powerful tool that shapes public opinion, influences peace, and at times, fuels division. He called for a responsible and ethical media landscape—one that places truth above political agendas and resists the pull of disinformation, especially in an era where digital platforms have made misinformation dangerously accessible.

Drawing from his background in law, Salam likened the pursuit of truth in journalism to that of the legal profession, both requiring objectivity, evidence, and discipline. He warned against the growing dominance of social media in news dissemination, noting that over half of the global population now receives news from platforms that often lack transparency and accountability.

Turning to Lebanon, the Prime Minister affirmed the country’s determination to rise from its prolonged crises. He underscored the government’s commitment to restoring the authority of the state and implementing necessary reforms, including the principle of exclusive state control over weapons and decision-making—moving away from the harmful dualities that have fragmented national sovereignty.

Salam reiterated Lebanon’s full adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and its commitment to cease hostilities while continuing to confront daily Israeli violations of Lebanese territory. He expressed deep appreciation for the continued support of Gulf countries, especially the United Arab Emirates. Highlighting the recent UAE decision to resume tourist visits to Lebanon, he praised the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and noted the vital presence of over 190,000 Lebanese living and working in the Emirates.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Lebanon’s battle today is not solely economic or political—it is also a battle for consciousness and truth. In this context, media becomes an essential partner in the country’s revival, not through partisanship, but through professionalism and integrity. He urged Arab media to embrace a forward-looking approach that supports regional unity, combats marginalization, and restores hope.

Concluding his speech with a powerful message, Salam called on Arab journalists to become guardians of truth and allies in rebuilding their societies. From Dubai, he declared Lebanon’s unwavering commitment to reclaiming its identity, sovereignty, and future, stating: “We are returning—to our state, to our Arab roots, and to the future.”