Hizbollah Site Staff, 12-6-2009

Labor Minister Mohammad Fneish responded to recent talk by Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Sfeir, stressing his full respect for the Maronite Patriarch's spiritual position, adding that "What we are saying has nothing to do with the spiritual Patriarch's position, but since he is determined to plunge himself into politics and making stands containing bias, accusations and injustices, he must therefore be responded to in politics."

Minister Fneish, in an interview with "Al-Manar" television, pointed out that talk of Lebanon being at risk had the opposition acquired the majority, is part of the speech we heard from a lot of domestic and external forces, particularly the U.S. and "Israel". Thus, ignoring the role played by "Israel" and the U.S., which either expresses not knowing what is happening, or ignoring or agreeing with their role."

Fneish saw that the stand taken by the Maronite Patriarch "Plunged Bkirki in political dispute, as it completely disregards the "Israeli"-American role, shows prejudice against the opposition team, disavows the role of the resistance in liberating the land and the opposition's role in defending the freedom and sovereignty of Lebanon, and doubts the opposition's patriotism. This is not worthy of those who occupy this position."

In response to a question he continued saying, "If he wanted to express himself, he can, but he should at least exclude himself from the circle of mistrust and accusations of treason."