Serge Dagher, Secretary-General of the Lebanese Kataeb Party, stated that Lebanon is laying the groundwork to break free from the so-called "Resistance Axis," underscoring the emergence of a national will that enabled the election of President Joseph Aoun.

"The inaugural speech delivered by President Aoun reflects the Kataeb Party’s vision for governance. Lebanon has turned a page. Today, we are a free, sovereign, and independent nation, led by a president elected despite resistance from those who opposed his candidacy," Dagher said in an interview with LBCI.

Dagher emphasized that this day marks the first significant turning point for Lebanon in nearly 45 years.

"We have endured the dominance of armed Palestinian factions, the Syrian occupation, and Iran’s grip on the country. Today, we are initiating Lebanon’s exit from the Resistance Axis," he remarked, adding that Lebanon is on the verge of reclaiming its identity as a hub of culture, art, and tourism, while acknowledging the critical value of Gulf and international support.

Dagher addressed the role of Lebanon's Shiite community, asserting that many Shiite citizens love Lebanon and have made great sacrifices for it.

"Our issue with Hezbollah is not sectarian but stems from its ideological alignment with Iran and its prioritization of the Revolutionary Guard’s interests over Lebanon’s," he explained.

"We do not want a fractured Lebanon or citizens divided into first and second classes. As Samy Gemayel emphasized during the presidential election session, we seek partnership and shared governance," Dagher continued. "This is a chance for humility and collaboration. It’s a historic moment with no winners or losers, just a united effort to rebuild the country."

Dagher contrasted the visions of the Resistance Axis with those of the alternative path. He explained that while the former promotes weapons, war, and a culture of resistance, the latter advocates for economic development, investment, and adherence to constitutional principles.

Referring to Gulf states and the United States, Dagher said, "These are the nations that stopped the war in Lebanon and are now investing in its recovery. Their support aligns with our aspirations for progress and stability."

Responding to claims that President Joseph Aoun’s election was imposed by external powers, Dagher rejected the notion outright.

"For decades, we heard that Lebanon was abandoned. Imposition only works on those willing to be imposed upon. No one imposes anything on the Kataeb Party. We opposed Aoun’s candidacy in the past, but today, if the Gulf and the U.S. view him as a stabilizing figure, we welcome him," Dagher declared. "He is a product of a national institution that withstood challenges. He avoided political bazaars, made no compromises, and refrained from false promises."

Dagher praised the president’s inaugural speech, highlighting its alignment with key Kataeb principles, including exclusive state control over arms, positive neutrality, decentralization, and accountability.

"We will stand by him as long as he adheres to this vision," Dagher affirmed.

Discussing the formation of a new government, Dagher emphasized the need for a competent and reform-driven cabinet.

"The international momentum will accelerate the creation of a clean, sovereign government. We need a cabinet that prioritizes meritocracy and avoids sectarian quotas," he stated.

Dagher also underscored Hezbollah’s diminishing role, pointing out that the group has failed to protect Lebanon, its leaders, or its people.

"The Shiite community deserves a future free from weapons that threaten its growth and survival," he added.

Turning to recent developments in Syria, Dagher expressed cautious optimism about the current administration.

"What we hear from the current Syrian leadership is encouraging. We want mutual respect, good neighborly relations, and shared economic interests," he said.

However, he stressed the importance of resolving the issue of Lebanese detainees in Syria, calling it "a stain on the history of our republic."

Dagher reiterated the Kataeb Party’s commitment to decentralization, noting that it eliminates corruption and guarantees rights for all Lebanese.

In conclusion, Dagher voiced optimism about Lebanon’s future.

"A Lebanon that aligns with Gulf interests will see positive results across all sectors. Tourism will thrive, expatriates will return, and institutions will be rebuilt. The nightmare is over. We are turning a new page, and we must embrace this historic moment with high spirits," he concluded.