Kataeb Party leader and MP Samy Gemayel said President Joseph Aoun is moving in the “right direction” on the issue of weapons outside State authority, voicing full support for the president’s approach while warning that upcoming parliamentary elections could be undermined unless the State asserts control in areas dominated by armed groups.

Speaking to reporters after meeting President Aoun at the Baabda Palace, Gemayel said the talks covered several key files, particularly in light of a recent interview by the president, which he described as pivotal in clarifying the official position on arms held outside the framework of the State.

“The reaction from Hezbollah-affiliated media, and the clear displeasure they expressed, is in itself proof that the president is heading in the right direction,” Gemayel said. “What the president is proposing serves Lebanon’s interests alone, and we stand fully alongside him in restoring State sovereignty.”

Gemayel said the focus now is on the implementation of the second phase of the disarmament plan north of the Litani River, describing it as a decisive test for the Lebanese State. He called for swift action, stressing that the country is at a critical juncture.

“We are at a pivotal stage. People expect results quickly, even if the issue is complex,” he said.

He also pointed to the international and regional backing President Aoun has secured for an upcoming conference in support of the Lebanese Army, saying it would help strengthen the military’s capabilities at a crucial moment.

Gemayel said the Kataeb leadership had urged the president to encourage the army to accelerate efforts to impose State authority north of the Litani. According to him, the army is expected to present its operational plan in the near future.

“We are closely following this process and hope to reach a point where it is fully completed,” he said. “We stand firmly behind the president and the army.”

Turning to parliamentary elections, Gemayel voiced growing concern about their integrity under the current conditions. He outlined three possible scenarios: applying the existing electoral law, which allocates six seats to expatriates and requires clarification on how those seats would be elected; reverting to the 2022 voting mechanism, which would require amending the law; or allowing expatriates to vote in Lebanon, which would also necessitate legislative changes.

“Parliament must have the final say,” Gemayel said. “It should convene and settle this issue in whichever direction it chooses. We are ready to abide by the outcome, whatever it may be.”

However, he stressed that the state must fundamentally change its approach to securing elections, particularly in areas under Hezbollah’s influence, especially if weapons remain outside State control. He questioned how authorities could guarantee a proper electoral process in those regions, recalling attacks on candidates and their representatives during previous elections.

“We want free elections in Nabatiyeh and Bint Jbeil just as they are free in every other part of Lebanon,” he said. “People must be able to move freely and campaign without fear.”

Gemayel noted that the Kataeb Party had previously called for postponing elections until State sovereignty was fully restored to ensure genuine democratic competition, but that the proposal was not adopted. He warned that without serious State measures, there is a risk of a de facto seizure of parliamentary seats in areas dominated by armed influence.

According to Gemayel, President Aoun confirmed during the meeting that efforts to place weapons under state authority are progressing and that operations north of the Litani are ongoing. He revealed that the army recently seized a weapons cache in the Bekaa Valley, adding that military action would continue and that implementation mechanisms are being put in place. He said a cabinet meeting on the issue is expected.

Gemayel dismissed warnings by Hezbollah of potential internal confrontation as intimidation tactics.

“This is rhetoric and exaggeration,” he said. “What we are hearing is illogical; a call for collective suicide and an attempt to force everyone to submit to a single logic.”

He said the Kataeb Party does not fear internal conflict and that the State should not be swayed by threats.

“What is being proposed is simply the application of the Constitution, equality among Lebanese citizens, and the restoration of state sovereignty,” he said.

Gemayel concluded by reiterating his support for President Aoun’s agenda, saying it reflects the aspirations of many Lebanese for a state that monopolizes decision-making, guarantees equality before the law, and moves toward peace and prosperity.

“Anyone who violates the law must be stopped by the State,” he said, stressing that carrying weapons outside State authority violates the Constitution, the law, and the government’s declared policy.

He added that those who break the law should not lecture others.

“The State is trying to protect all citizens,” Gemayel said. “Instead of embracing the president’s outreach, they are rejecting it and raising the political stakes.”