Hakim: Lebanon's Future Depends on State-Building and Sovereignty

Kataeb Political Bureau member Professor Alan Hakim clarified that the focus of the upcoming phase should be clear.

He emphasized the importance of understanding "where we have been and where we are heading."

"We now have a president of the republic, and from this point, Lebanon can take the initiative to embrace change and influence the process towards building a state," Hakim said.

In an interview with Voice of Lebanon, Hakim noted that Lebanon does not have the luxury of time, and wasting time is not in its favor.

"There are guarantees in place, including those from the President of the Republic in his inaugural speech and regional guarantees. These are evident in the dismantling of the Iranian presence in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. What we are witnessing today is a waste of time by the Shiite duo, particularly in their failure to implement Resolution 1701 and disarm illegal groups," he explained.

Hakim stressed that the responsibility today lies not only with the duo but specifically with House Speaker Nabih Berri, who carries a significant responsibility in finding solutions and recognizing that circumstances have changed.

"Berri must think of Lebanon first," Hakim said.

In response to a question, Hakim pointed out that Hezbollah must act with a sense of patriotism, affirming Kataeb Party is extending a hand based on the goal of state-building.

He added, "No one wants to remove Speaker Berri, nor the Shiite community. We cannot build a state without the Shiite component."

He continued, "As sovereign forces, our call is clear: state-building. The President's inaugural speech is clear, and the Kataeb Party believes that this speech is Lebanon's salvation in the upcoming phase. We want to join the ranks of advanced Arab countries, and this is something that 'does not upset anyone' except those who seek to implement the Iranian agenda."

"The Kataeb Party's goal is to offer full support to the new era represented by President Joseph Aoun. Our party is committed to reason and logic, and our vision is clear for any ministry we take on. Let me remind you that we completed a program during the previous parliamentary elections, consisting of 128 points, which applies to all ministries," Hakim stated.

He pointed out that there are crucial issues related to the country's future that will be on the table.

He emphasized that sovereign forces must be present within the government, warning that "as long as the ceasefire agreement is not respected, we will miss the train of progress and the opportunity to build a state."

He concluded by stating, "The Iranian statements are clear: Iran wants to reintroduce weapons, while we aim to sever ties with Iran to allow Lebanon to reach the sovereignty it deserves."