Gemayel Confident Lebanon Is Moving in the Right Direction

Kataeb Party leader Samy Gemayel voiced strong support for the Lebanese army’s plan to consolidate weapons in the south, expressing confidence that Lebanon is moving in the right direction to bring all weapons under State control.

Speaking to Annahar, Gemayel described Hezbollah’s arsenal as “outside the national framework,” and stressed that roughly 90% of parliamentary blocs and political forces support placing weapons under State control.

“Even Speaker Nabih Berri has publicly endorsed this path, leaving Hezbollah as the sole opposing force in parliament,” he said.

Gemayel downplayed recent threats from Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem, who warned of a potential “Karbala-like battle.”

“These statements remain within the realm of party mobilization and do not reflect the actual balance of power,” Gemayel said. “The Lebanese street, including Hezbollah’s grassroots, is increasingly expressing discontent over the human and material costs the country has borne in service of regional agendas.”

He emphasized that the government’s efforts constitute "a fundamental step in rebuilding the State and restoring international confidence, paving the way for reconstruction and economic recovery.”

The Kataeb leader also highlighted the role of Lebanon’s Shiite community in the process.

“The Shiite community itself will be a key partner in this national project once it is freed from the party’s tutelage and weapons,” he said.

Gemayel concluded by underlining the central role of the Lebanese army.

“The Lebanese army, which unites all components of society, is the only force authorized to bear arms, and it is stronger than any internal group. The will of the State is now clear, and it is essential to continue on this path toward a normal, sovereign, and independent State capable of protecting all its citizens.”