Lebanese Parliament pays tribute to Ziad Rahbani with a moment of silence

Thursday 31 July 2025 - 13:00

Beirut – On Thursday morning, the Lebanese Parliament opened its legislative session with a minute of silence to honor the memory of the legendary composer, playwright, and political satirist Ziad Rahbani, who passed away on July 26 at the age of 69.

The session, initially scheduled to address key legislative items, including reforms of the country’s banking sector, began solemnly with this national homage.

Rahbani, son of iconic Lebanese singer Feyrouz and composer Assi Rahbani, was laid to rest on Monday, surrounded by tributes from across the political and cultural landscape. His death has sparked a rare moment of unity in Lebanon, with figures from all major parties—from the Lebanese Forces to Hezbollah—offering public condolences.

On Monday and Tuesday, dozens of political leaders, artists, and media personalities visited the Rahbani family home to express their sympathies, particularly to his mother, Feyrouz, regarded as a living symbol of Arab musical heritage.

Ziad Rahbani was a voice of social critique and artistic innovation. His works, which combined political satire with musical mastery, have left an indelible mark on generations of Lebanese and Arab audiences.

His passing has been described by commentators and officials as a cultural loss of national magnitude, at a time when Lebanon continues to seek hope through its resilient artistic spirit.