Photos by Sana Tawileh
Lebanon (MNN) ― Hezbollah's challenge for power in Lebanon has failed. The March 14th coalition--a predominantly Sunni, Christian and Druze alliance--remains a U.S.-backed group.
Poll results show the pro-West alliance retained its hold on the government. They won the majority in the 128-member parliament with 71 seats, compared with to 57 for the Hezbollah-led coalition. The results were unexpected for Hezbollah and its allies, Iran and Syria.
Now comes the work of forming a new government. Lebanon splits the parliamentary seats and top government posts between Muslim Sunni, Shiite and Christian politicians. While beaten at the polls, Hezbollah and its allies still wield significant influence over the next government.
David Harder is with SAT-7, a Christian television satellite ministry to the Middle East and North Africa. He says their Lebanese staff has been sharing concern about the outcome, remembering the unrest that gripped the region during the last elections.
This time around, Harder explains, the results were an answer to prayer. "That coalition led by Prime Minister Hariri has a more Western outlook and has been supported by a majority of Christians within the country. That party has been the one that has been more Western looking, and I think most of the Christian community is pleased that this is the way it has gone."
SAT-7 staff is relieved because of Lebanon's turbulent history. "That there is peace in the country and that the losing side seems to be accepting the results, is really a wonderful thing for that country that's been so divided."
As for ministry, Harder urges continued prayer. "That's a very good thing for all of the Christians and certainly for our operations there. It means that Lebanon is remaining peaceful. At least, that's the way it appears at this point."
Harder asks people to pray not only for continued stability, but also that their team would "have the funding to be able to make the programs that we'd like to make. Pray also that many people would be drawn to the broadcasts, find encouragement, and find hope in Jesus Christ."
