Lebanese Divide Over Renaming Assad Avenue Sparks Social Media Debate

ziyad Rahbani and Hafez al-Assad: A Long-Simmering Conflict Erupts

Beirut, Lebanon – A previously understated but deeply rooted antagonism between Lebanese composer and playwright Ziyad Rahbani and the late Syrian President Hafez al-Assad has come to light, revealing a decades-long tension fueled by a single, seemingly innocuous incident. Details emerging this week indicate the conflict originated from a naming dispute during a theatrical production in the 1970s.

Sources suggest the disagreement stemmed from al-Assad’s objection to a character’s name within one of Rahbani’s plays. While the specific name and the play’s details remain largely undisclosed, the incident reportedly triggered a meaningful and lasting rift between the two figures.

Rahbani, son of the renowned Lebanese singer Fairuz, is known for his politically charged work and critical perspectives on Arab politics. Al-Assad,who ruled Syria with an iron fist from 1971 to 2000,was notoriously sensitive to any perceived disrespect or challenge to his authority.

This revelation arrives amidst renewed scrutiny of al-Assad’s legacy, particularly in the context of the ongoing Syrian civil war and its regional ramifications. Experts note that al-Assad’s regime routinely suppressed dissent and maintained strict control over artistic expression.

“This incident, while seemingly minor, is indicative of the broader climate of control and censorship that characterized al-Assad’s rule,” explains Dr. Lina Haddad, a specialist in Middle Eastern political history at the American University of Beirut. “Any perceived slight, even within the realm of art, could be interpreted as a threat and met with swift repercussions.”

The surfacing of this conflict also highlights the complex relationship between Lebanon and Syria, which has been marked by periods of both cooperation and conflict. Syria maintained a significant military and political presence in Lebanon for nearly three decades, ending with its withdrawal in 2005.

Rahbani, now 79, continues to be a prominent cultural figure in Lebanon, and his work remains influential.The details of this historical dispute offer a rare glimpse into the personal dynamics behind the political landscape of the region during a turbulent era. The incident serves as a reminder of the power dynamics at play and the risks faced by artists who dared to challenge the status quo.

How does the ancient context of Syrian involvement in Lebanon, especially the Taif agreement and the Syrian military presence, inform the current debate surrounding Assad Avenue?

The Controversy Unfolds: A Street Name and National Identity

The recent proposal to rename Assad Avenue in Beirut has ignited a fierce debate across Lebanon, rapidly escalating into a widespread social media phenomenon. The discussion isn’t simply about a street name; it’s a reflection of deeply entrenched political divisions and a national struggle with its complex relationship with Syria. The core of the issue revolves around Hafez al-Assad,the former Syrian president whose decades-long influence shaped Lebanese politics,and the legacy of Syrian presence in Lebanon. This debate touches upon themes of Lebanese politics,Syrian influence,and national identity.

Historical Context: Assad’s Role in Lebanon

Understanding the current uproar requires a look back at history. Hafez al-Assad’s Syria played a dominant role in Lebanon, particularly during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990). Syrian troops were deployed as part of the Arab Deterrent Force, and their presence evolved into a prolonged military and political intervention.

The Taif Agreement (1989): This agreement, brokered with Syrian involvement, formally ended the Civil War but also solidified Syria’s influence in Lebanese affairs.

Syrian military Presence: Syrian forces remained in Lebanon until 2005, following the assassination of former Prime Minister rafic Hariri and subsequent widespread protests – the Cedar Revolution.

Assad Avenue’s origins: The avenue was named after Hafez al-Assad during the period of Syrian dominance, a move seen by many Lebanese as a symbol of subjugation.

Social Media Reactions: A Nation Divided

The proposal to rename Assad Avenue quickly became a trending topic on platforms like Twitter (now X), Facebook, and Instagram. The hashtag #RenameAssadAvenue gained important traction, showcasing the breadth of opinions.

Pro-Renaming Arguments: Supporters argue that keeping the name honors a figure associated with occupation and interference in Lebanese sovereignty. They propose alternative names celebrating Lebanese heroes, national unity, or cultural icons. Many see it as a necessary step towards complete independence and reclaiming national pride.

Anti-Renaming Arguments: Opponents contend that renaming the avenue is a symbolic act that won’t address Lebanon’s real problems – the ongoing economic crisis, political corruption, and sectarian tensions. Some argue it’s a divisive move that could further exacerbate existing political fractures. Others express concern about possibly offending Syrian nationals or escalating tensions with the Assad regime.

Political Alignment: The debate largely falls along existing political fault lines.Supporters of the March 14 movement, traditionally opposed to Syrian influence, generally favor renaming the avenue. Conversely, parties aligned with Syria, such as Hezbollah and the Free patriotic Movement, tend to oppose the change.

Key Players and Political statements

Several prominent Lebanese figures have weighed in on the debate.

Beirut Municipality: The initial proposal originated within the Beirut Municipality, sparking the wider discussion.

Hezbollah’s Stance: Representatives from hezbollah have publicly criticized the proposal, framing it as a provocative act that serves foreign agendas.

March 14 Coalition: Leaders within the March 14 coalition have voiced strong support for renaming the avenue, emphasizing the importance of severing ties with the past.

Civil Society Groups: Numerous Lebanese civil society organizations have actively participated in the online debate, advocating for a public consultation process before any decision is made.

The Broader Implications: Symbolism and National Healing

The debate over Assad Avenue extends beyond a single street name. It’s a microcosm of Lebanon’s ongoing struggle to reconcile with its past and forge a unified national identity.

Dealing with the Past: Lebanon has a history of avoiding confronting difficult truths about its past, particularly regarding the Civil War and Syrian involvement. This debate forces a reckoning with that history.

Sectarian Divisions: The issue has inadvertently highlighted existing sectarian divisions within Lebanese society, with different communities holding varying perspectives on Syria and its role in Lebanon.

* The Future of Lebanese-Syrian Relations: The outcome of this debate could signal a shift in Lebanon’s approach to its relationship with Syria, particularly given the ongoing Syrian Civil War and the presence of Syrian refugees in Lebanon. The Lebanon-Syria relations are complex and sensitive.

Potential Outcomes and Next Steps

As of August 8, 2025, the Beirut Municipality has not yet made a final decision on the renaming proposal. Several potential outcomes are possible:

1. Renaming: The municipality could vote to rename the avenue, potentially choosing a name suggested by the public through a consultation process.
2. Status quo: The municipality could decide to maintain the current name,opting to avoid further controversy.
3. Compromise: A compromise solution could be reached, such as renaming a portion of the avenue or adding a commemorative plaque acknowledging the complex history.
4. Political Intervention: The issue could be escalated to the national level, with the Lebanese government intervening to make a final decision.

the debate surrounding Assad Avenue serves as a potent reminder of the enduring impact of history and politics on Lebanese society. It underscores the importance of