Hakim: It's Either Deploying the Lebanese Army and Implementing UNSC Resolution 1701 or Facing National Suicide

Kataeb Political  Bureau Member Alain Hakim described it as both ironic and tragic that "we are waiting for external intervention to resolve the Lebanese issue when the solution is within the reach of the Lebanese people themselves."

In an interview with Voice of Lebanon, he emphasized the need for a unified sovereign vision for the national project, stressing that waiting for external solutions harms Lebanon and its components.

He affirmed that bringing Hezbollah back into the core of the Lebanese equation is essential to reach solutions that serve the interests of the Lebanese people, saying, "The crisis is not between the Lebanese, but a result of Iranian interference in Lebanese affairs. Iran views Lebanon merely as a battleground and a tool to be exploited, and we have seen Iran’s blatant interference in obstructing the tripartite meeting in Ain el-Tineh."

Hakim explained that the visit of Kataeb Leader Samy Gemayel abroad is aimed at presenting alternative options to other countries and showing that Lebanon offers another choice based on democracy, freedom, citizenship, sovereignty, and placing weapons under the authority of the Lebanese army.

He said that this perspective is a realistic one, not based on recklessness or tension, and respects everyone involved.

He pointed out that the opposition is presenting an alternative that relies on the constitution and sovereignty, especially since the Lebanese majority opposes war. The only protection comes from each other.

Hakim considered that the only countries not aligned with moderation are the failed states that portray Iran in a favorable light, promoting its interests in the West.

He added that Hezbollah’s weapons have not only embroiled those who carry them in problems but have also led to massive displacement and widespread destruction.

He continued, "We want solidarity among Lebanese first to send a single, strong message to the outside world. However, the main obstacle to our unity is Iran, through Hezbollah, as Iran controls the situation."

Hakim confirmed that House Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Najib Mikati are responsible today, stating, "We ask Berri to open the parliament to facilitate internal discussions about the war, declare a ceasefire, and support UNSC Resolution 1701 with national unity."

Hakim affirmed that handing over Hezbollah's weapons to the army would be an act of dignity and protection for Lebanon.

He asked, "Wouldn't Hezbollah be defeated and broken if it handed its weapons over to the Israelis, as is happening today?"

He added, "Either we deploy the Lebanese army and implement UNSC 1701 or we face collective suicide. The army is above all, and it is the only existing institution. We must support the military institution, not attack it for partisan or personal interests."

He stressed that the permanent lifeline for Lebanon is the army, and "I am confident that the army is ready to fulfill its duties for the entire country."

He also noted that there is no path to peace in the region except through a two-state solution, considering that Lebanon’s misfortune began with Hezbollah assuming power under President Michel Aoun.

Regarding the participation of the Syrian president in the Arab-Islamic summit in Riyadh, Hakim viewed the Syrian regime as having a clear political vision and project, which led to its return to the fold of Arab states.

Hakim estimated the direct losses from the war at $12 billion, without accounting for indirect losses, saying, "Lebanon cannot be rebuilt without the help of our Arab brothers, foremost among them Saudi Arabia. There are no economic or financial solutions except through our Arab brothers, provided we have nationalism, sovereignty, the army, and a unified weapon."