Kataeb Lawmaker Elias Hankach affirmed that the opposition has embarrassed several parliamentary blocs whose positions were not aligned with the stance of the opposition.

This, he noted, ultimately led to securing 99 votes.

In an interview with Sky News Arabia, Hankach stressed the urgent need for this president (Joseph Aoun), emphasizing the critical timing of this election.

Responding to a question about the opposition’s meeting two days ago in Maarab, Hankach clarified that the meeting between the leaders of the Kataeb Party and the Lebanese Forces was the culmination of ongoing collaboration among opposition factions and intersections with other blocs.

"The presidential vacuum served Hezbollah’s interests during the transitional phase it was navigating. This became evident when Hezbollah decided to drag Lebanon into a "dare-to-challenge" war, causing widespread destruction, and loss of life, and plunging the country into a dark tunnel with no clear end in sight. However, today, a new hope has emerged, and Lebanon now has an opportunity to reposition itself as a forward-thinking, open, and advanced nation through its administration and the convergence of its human capital," Hankach noted.

Addressing Lebanese expatriates, Hankach stated: “I know that all the young people living in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and across the Gulf are hopeful. The newly elected president has already reached out to them, and we will stand by the president to implement his vision.”

Hankach highlighted the presence of international support, reiterating that for two decades, the demand has consistently been for the state to maintain exclusive authority over weapons.

He highlighted that the cornerstone of the president’s speech was the emphasis on limiting arms to the state—a point he reiterated twice, underscoring his commitment to this issue.

"For two decades, people were sold the idea that Hezbollah's weapons would protect the Lebanese, but it became clear that these arms were not a source of strength. Instead, Lebanon was dragged into an ill-conceived war through Hezbollah's reckless ventures," he explained.

Hankach expressed his belief that even Hezbollah and its supporters now realize that these weapons no longer serve their interests.

He further noted that Lebanon has emerged from the "axis of resistance" and returned to its natural fold—its Arab identity and historic alliances.

He pointed out that Lebanon had been under a quasi-siege or isolation due to the actions of those who managed foreign policies, harming relationships with key allies like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other Gulf countries.

Hankach stressed the urgent need to rebuild trust with the Arab world, attract Arab and international investments, and restore normal trade, political, diplomatic, security, and intelligence relations.

Addressing the premiership, Hankach said: "While the position of prime minister is crucial to the Sunni community, it is equally vital for Lebanon as a whole. What the country truly needs is a CEO—an effective executive leader. With the new presidential term underway, we expect to see fresh faces and bold initiatives. As a former opposition bloc, we have figures who deserve to assume leadership, such as fellow MPs Waddah Sadek, Fouad Makhzoumi, and Ashraf Rifi."

Hankach expressed his belief that no one can obstruct the term of General Joseph Aoun, asserting that those who fail to join this momentum will suffer significant political losses.

He further remarked, "There is no doubt that the major transformations in the region and the international focus have left those betting on external forces at a loss. The axis of resistance pinned its hopes on Syria and Iran, dragging Lebanon into wars. It is clear to all that Lebanon today is incapable of saving itself alone. The salvation of Lebanon hinges on international and UN backing, as well as the attention of its historical allies. This support will be instrumental in transitioning the country from the ranks of failed states to productive ones."

Hankach emphasized the need to appoint the right person in the right place, advocating for a new working model with a fresh mindset to move away from the entrenched culture of quotas and power-sharing.