The great Lebanese artist Ziad Rahbani, son of Fairuz and Assi Rahbani, suffered from a long illness that was not officially disclosed until after his death, which shocked the Arab world on Saturday at the age of 69.

Media reports revealed that the Lebanese composer was suffering from severe liver cirrhosis, which required a liver transplant. However, Rahbani completely refused the procedure, considering that staying alive amid the collapse his country was experiencing was pointless.

“Treatment became outdated ideas”

In media statements, Lebanese Minister of Culture Ghassan Salameh said, “We feared this day because we knew his health was deteriorating and his desire for treatment was fading. Plans to treat him in Lebanon or abroad became outdated ideas because he was no longer able to envision the treatment or the necessary operations. May God have mercy on the creative Rahbani; we will mourn him as we repeat his immortal songs.”

Ziad Rahbani passed away alone, having distanced himself from friends, acquaintances, and even family, with only his assistant Ahmed by his side in his final moments.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun mourned the late artist, saying he was not just an artist but an intellectual and cultural phenomenon—a rebellious voice against injustice and a sincere mirror to the marginalized and oppressed.

He emphasized that Rahbani presented a unique artistic vision through his purposeful theater and music that combined classical, jazz, and Eastern influences, making him both innovative and globally influential.

“A creative artist”

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati also mourned him, describing Rahbani as a creative artist and free voice who remained loyal to justice and dignity.

He added, “Ziad embodied a deep commitment to human and national causes, spoke what many dared not say, and touched the hopes and pains of the Lebanese for decades... He planted a new awareness in the national cultural consciousness. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and all Lebanese who loved him and considered him their voice.”

It is worth noting that Ziad Rahbani was one of the most prominent artists, composers, and playwrights in Lebanon, known for his modern music and critical theatrical works that reflected the Lebanese reality with a sharp and satirical style.