The Lebanon Youth Movement and the Lebanese Civil Emergency Authority held their joint central Iftar at the Phoenicia Hotel in Beirut, bringing together more than 1,000 attendees from Beirut and across Lebanon.
The event was attended by senior religious, political, legal, and social figures, including representatives of the Mufti of the Lebanese Republic Sheikh Abdellatif Derian and the Sheikh Aql of the Druze Community Sheikh Sami Abi Al Mona, as well as former ministers and MPs, representatives of the Beirut and Tripoli Bar Associations, military officers, religious leaders, Beirut mukhtars, and members of civil society.
Following the Lebanese national anthem, speakers highlighted the importance of Ramadan as a unifying occasion that strengthens national solidarity, coexistence, and the role of civil institutions in supporting society alongside state authorities during difficult times.
During the event, Elie Saliba, President of the Lebanon Youth Movement and the Lebanese Civil Emergency Authority, delivered a keynote address in which he officially announced his candidacy for the Orthodox parliamentary seat in the Beirut II electoral district.
Saliba reviewed the movement’s journey since its establishment in 2013, emphasizing its focus on youth participation in political, social, and public life beyond sectarian and regional divisions. He also highlighted the organization’s humanitarian and social efforts through the Lebanese Civil Emergency Authority, particularly during major crises including the COVID 19 pandemic, the Beirut Port explosion, and periods of displacement. He noted that these initiatives were carried out in coordination with state institutions and civil partners.
In his address, Saliba outlined a reform oriented political vision centered on social justice, education, public accountability, economic recovery, and the strengthening of state institutions. He reaffirmed his commitment to defending citizens’ rights, supporting transparency, recovering depositors’ funds, promoting digital government, and reinforcing Lebanon’s relations with Arab countries.
Saliba concluded by expressing his gratitude to all supporters, volunteers, and partners who accompanied the movement over the past years, calling on the people of Beirut, particularly the youth, to actively participate in shaping the country’s political future through democratic engagement.
The event concluded in a spirit of unity, reaffirming the role of civic action and youth leadership in Lebanon’s path toward recovery and reform.
