Alain Hakim, a member of the Kataeb Party's Political Bureau and former minister, recently addressed the two key messages conveyed in Hezbollah's Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem’s latest speech. Hakim explained that Qassem's address served two distinct purposes: the first was to raise the morale of Hezbollah’s grassroots supporters, and the second was to emphasize the importance of establishing a State where weapons are controlled exclusively by the Lebanese State and the Lebanese Army.

In an interview on Souryo TV, Hakim discussed the demographic of the funeral procession for Hezbollah’s slain leader, which, he noted, represented the party’s core base. While acknowledging Hezbollah’s significant influence within the Shiite community, Hakim emphasized that the group does not represent the entire sect. He further Stated that it is the responsibility of the broader Shiite population to express their desire for change and to actively work toward building a strong, unified State.

Hakim also observed a noticeable shift in Qassem's rhetoric, particularly his emphasis on building the State based on the Taif Agreement. However, Hakim was quick to point out that Qassem's speech overlooked the Lebanese Constitution, which is fundamental to the country’s foundation. Additionally, Hakim highlighted the fact that the funeral ceremony took place at the Camille Chamoun Sports City Stadium, a sovereign institution, and was exclusively protected by the Lebanese Army. This, he said, sends a strong message about the importance of sovereignty and the State’s role in safeguarding its institutions.

On the matter of Hezbollah’s international representation, Hakim criticized the party’s close ties to Iran, noting that the presence of only one foreign representative—Iran’s foreign minister and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard—at the funeral revealed Hezbollah’s ongoing dependence on Iranian support. Hakim reiterated that Hezbollah remains a terrorist organization in the eyes of many countries and that its current form is disconnected from the international community.

"What is needed is for Hezbollah to return to the Lebanese fold," he stressed.

Hakim expressed confidence that the recent milestones in Lebanon, including the election of a president and the formation of a government, indicate a clear direction toward strengthening Lebanon's Statehood. He added that the political mechanisms needed to build the State will be pursued collectively, with the focus remaining on consolidating Lebanon as a sovereign nation.

Regarding President Joseph Aoun’s Statement during his recent meeting with an Iranian delegation, Hakim affirmed that Lebanon is embracing a new path that firmly asserts its sovereignty, with the Lebanese Army as the sole legitimate holder of weapons in the country.

"The ministerial Statement reflects this vision," he said, "showing the Lebanese State’s determination to reassert control over its territory and institutions."

Hakim also addressed President Aoun's anticipated visit to Saudi Arabia, calling it economically and socially significant. He noted that this visit would further the process of State-building and strengthen Lebanon's position on the international stage.

On the topic of Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon, Hakim emphasized that any foreign military presence on Lebanese soil, including the continued presence of Israeli forces in five positions along the border, constitutes an occupation. He reminded that the ceasefire agreement was signed by the Lebanese government with Hezbollah’s consent, and both parties are obligated to respect this agreement.