Kataeb Political Bureau Member and former Minister Alain Hakim deemed the return of the displaced to their homes, the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, and the election of a president as key to Lebanon's stability in the upcoming phase. 

In an interview on OTV, Hakim described the return of displaced persons to their areas as a crucial social and national matter, noting that this return signals the Lebanese people's deep connection to their land and an encouraging sign for the next phase of rebuilding the country.

Regarding the Lebanese Army’s role in southern Lebanon, Hakim expressed full confidence in the military's actions, which he believes provide reassurance for the Lebanese people.

“The deployment of the Lebanese Army in southern villages is a victory for both the State and its citizens. It brings confidence and stability to all,” he emphasized, adding that this deployment is vital to maintain order and demonstrate the State's authority over its land.

Hakim called for a shift in perspective regarding the current phase, amid the ongoing challenges Lebanon faces, stressing that it is crucial to move beyond the dichotomy of ‘victory or defeat.’

"This stage should be viewed as a new opportunity to rebuild Lebanon, starting with the restoration of the country’s State institutions,” he stated, urging the Lebanese people and political figures to view the ongoing situation as a chance for a fresh start rather than focusing solely on past conflicts.

A major aspect of the ongoing discussions is the recent ceasefire agreement, which Hakim says holds the potential for positive change if adhered to. He elaborated on the terms of the agreement, explaining that it involves international monitoring and covers all Lebanese territories and weapons.

“The agreement is clear in its terms, especially regarding the exclusivity of weapons in Lebanon, which includes a prohibition on Hezbollah rearming,” he pointed out.

Hakim stressed that the commitment to this agreement is non-negotiable, particularly for Hezbollah, as any deviation from the agreed terms would risk bringing further destruction and instability to Lebanon.

Hakim stressed that Lebanon's true response to Israel’s actions would come through its own stability and unified Lebanese State.

Furthermore, Hakim highlighted the political and social responsibility of Lebanon’s leadership to safeguard its citizens, saying that Lebanon’s immediate focus must be the well-being of its people and the protection of their interests during the upcoming phase of the country's recovery. 

Hakim firmly rejected the so-called "Army, People, Resistance" trilogy, stating that its failure had been proven through the events of the past years.

“This trilogy is no longer valid, as Hezbollah has agreed to the ceasefire agreement and subjected its military infrastructure to the terms of the deal,” he affirmed, reiterating that Lebanon's national interest lies in moving beyond this outdated equation and focusing on the country's future.

The absence of a president for two years, according to Hakim, has significantly damaged Lebanon’s credibility in the international arena, warning that the ongoing void could cause further harm to the country.

“Lebanon’s credibility with the world has been severely affected due to the prolonged absence of a president. We must begin by restoring the presidency,” Hakim urged. He rejected any further delay in electing a president, emphasizing that Lebanon could not afford to waste time.

“We do not have time to wait until the beginning of the new year, as this delay will cost Lebanon dearly,” he said, in reference to Speaker Nabih Berri's call for an election session on January 9.

Hakim underscored the urgency of holding presidential elections, noting that the obstruction of the process was a deliberate strategy to keep the presidency vacant and allow Hezbollah to manage the country according to its interests.

He emphasized that Lebanon needs a president who will commit to and implement the ceasefire agreement as it stands.

Looking ahead, Hakim said Lebanon faces three possible scenarios: continuing to be embroiled in an ongoing war like Ukraine, becoming a country like Syria with its land overrun by foreign forces, or rebuilding the State.

He expressed a clear preference for the third option, saying that focus must be centered on rebuilding Lebanon as a strong, independent state, one that adheres to international agreements and reclaims its sovereignty.

Finally, Hakim addressed Lebanon’s financial future, stressing that without implementing the ceasefire agreement and restoring stability, Lebanon would not attract financial investments.

“There will be no financial investment in Lebanon unless the ceasefire agreement is fully implemented,” he warned.

He also touched on Lebanon’s relationship with the Arab world, emphasizing that the support of Arab and Gulf nations was lost when illegal weapons took control of the country and when Lebanese sovereignty was compromised. However, he expressed optimism that this new agreement could restore Lebanon’s standing on the international stage.

“This agreement will ensure that weapons would be under the State's exclusive control and will restore the country’s sovereignty. By adhering to this agreement, we will regain the support of the international community,” he concluded, stressing the need for seriousness and transparency in institutional dealings to restore Lebanon’s international credibility and foster regional and international partnerships for its recovery.