Lebanon PM Vows to Reclaim Occupied Land, Push Reforms and Economic Recovery on Labour Day

KUALA LUMPUR, May, 2026 — Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has vowed to reclaim “every inch” of occupied Lebanese land while pushing forward economic reforms and national recovery efforts, in a strong Labour Day message addressing the country’s ongoing crisis.

In a statement marking International Workers’ Day, Salam acknowledged the severe hardships faced by Lebanese citizens, including job losses, declining purchasing power, and mounting economic pressure. He emphasized that his government remains committed to improving living conditions while restoring national sovereignty.

Pledge to Restore Sovereignty

The Prime Minister reaffirmed Lebanon’s position on territorial integrity, stating that the government will continue efforts to reclaim occupied land amid ongoing tensions in southern Lebanon.

He pledged to “restore every inch” of occupied territory while advancing reform and recovery initiatives.

This statement comes as Lebanon remains affected by regional instability and conflict, particularly involving cross-border tensions with Israel, which have contributed to displacement and destruction in parts of the country.

Economic Crisis Remains Central Challenge

Lebanon continues to face one of the worst economic crises in modern history. Since 2019:

• The national currency has lost over 98% of its value
• Inflation has surged dramatically
• Millions of citizens are struggling with rising living costs

The Prime Minister acknowledged these challenges, stressing the need for urgent economic reforms and sustainable recovery strategies.

He outlined key priorities, including:

• Creating new job opportunities
• Restoring economic stability
• Rebuilding public confidence in government institutions

The situation in Lebanon has worsened due to ongoing conflict and economic collapse, with significant humanitarian consequences.

Recent assessments indicate:

• Around 1.24 million people are facing acute food insecurity
• Large-scale displacement continues due to conflict escalation
• Living conditions have deteriorated across multiple sectors

The government has pledged to address these challenges through both short-term relief measures and long-term structural reforms.

Reform Agenda and National Recovery

Salam emphasized that economic recovery and reform remain at the core of his administration’s agenda.

The government aims to:

• Implement structural economic reforms
• Strengthen governance and institutional transparency
• Rebuild investor confidence
• Support long-term growth and stability

He described the recovery plan as essential to placing Lebanon on a path toward what he called “real recovery” and sustainable development.

Lebanon’s challenges are compounded by broader regional tensions, including ongoing military activity and ceasefire violations in southern Lebanon.

Recent developments include:

• Continued airstrikes and military operations
• The establishment of contested buffer zones
• Ongoing displacement of civilians

These factors continue to strain Lebanon’s already fragile economy and infrastructure, making recovery efforts even more complex.

Lebanon’s Labour Day message highlights a dual national priority: reclaiming sovereignty and rebuilding the economy.

As Prime Minister Nawaf Salam pushes forward with reform and recovery plans, the country faces a critical moment in its history—balancing geopolitical challenges with the urgent need for economic stabilization and social recovery.