Beirut – Lebanese Industry Minister Joe Issa El-Khoury has publicly urged Lebanon to acknowledge Israel's existence and transition from a "culture of war to a culture of peace." The minister's remarks, made during an April 15, 2026 interview with Pen Media on YouTube, included a direct assertion that "Israel has no expansionist agenda toward Lebanon."
El-Khoury's statement emphasized the need for a fundamental shift in Lebanese policy and public discourse. "There are two notions that we need to accept from now on. The first is that Israel exists, the second is that we need to shift from a culture of war to a culture of peace. Enough. The Lebanese people and our country cannot take it anymore," he stated. He further challenged the long-held narrative, describing the idea that "Israelis aspire to establish the 'Greater Israel,' which will include a part of Lebanon," as a "false narrative" used to justify keeping weapons outside state control.
The minister, affiliated with the Lebanese Forces party, also linked the pursuit of peace to the disarmament of non-state actors. When asked about the "price" of a culture of peace, El-Khoury responded, "What is the price? That Hizbullah will have to surrender its weapons to the government? We welcome such a price." He has previously advocated for a timeline for the disarmament of illegal weapons, including those held by Palestinian factions and Hezbollah, stressing that such arms must be under the exclusive authority of the Lebanese Army.
El-Khoury underscored the severe economic and social consequences of continued conflict, noting that "Our children out emigrating." He has consistently argued that international financial support and investment are contingent on Lebanon moving away from a climate of war and illegal armament. His statements reflect a growing concern among some Lebanese officials about the country's stability and economic future amidst ongoing regional tensions.
This bold declaration from a sitting cabinet member is expected to generate significant discussion within Lebanon's complex political landscape, particularly given the historical context of conflict and the prominent role of groups like Hezbollah. The minister's call for a re-evaluation of the country's stance towards Israel marks a notable departure from traditional Lebanese political rhetoric.
