Lebanon marks 81st Independence Day amid presidential vacancy, ongoing Israeli aggression

Lebanon is commemorating its 81st Independence Day on Friday, without official celebrations due to the ongoing vacancy in the presidency and Israel's continued military aggression against the country, which has lasted for nearly two months.

On Nov. 22, 1943, Lebanon gained its independence from the French colonial rule. The lack of a sitting president since October 2022, combined with the mounting Israeli aggression, has cast a shadow over the anniversary celebrations this year.

The last attempt to elect a new president was made on June 14, 2022, but the Lebanese parliament has failed to elect a successor, leaving the position vacant.

The sole public observance of the occasion took place at the Defense Ministry in the village of Yarze, east of Beirut, where a symbolic ceremony was held.

The event was attended by Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Army Commander Joseph Aoun, and Minister of Defense Maurice Sleem, who placed a wreath at the memorial to fallen soldiers.

In his remarks, Mikati emphasized that the Lebanese people remain resolute in celebrating their independence, despite the challenging circumstances.

He stressed that the army continues to be a symbol of hope and protection, particularly in the south where they are preparing to bolster their presence against Israeli advances.

To mark the occasion, Mikati had previously issued a directive to public institutions, replacing the usual Independence Day celebrations with the wreath-laying ceremony at the Ministry of Defense.

Israel has engaged in cross-border warfare with Lebanon, launching an air campaign in late September against what it claims are Hezbollah targets.

Nearly 3,600 people have been killed by Israeli attacks in Lebanon, with more than 5,000 injured and over 1 million displaced since last October, according to Lebanese health authorities.

Tel Aviv expanded the conflict by launching a ground assault into southern Lebanon on Oct. 1.