Kataeb MP Elias Hankach expressed his solidarity with the retired soldiers' movement, emphasizing the importance of addressing their demands.

Speaking via Voice of Lebanon radio station, Hankach underlined that supporting the retired soldiers is a national duty, as they have sacrificed their lives for the country's safety. According to Hankach, resolving their grievances should be a top priority, as their struggle represents the wider frustrations of all Lebanese citizens.

"What they are doing today is on behalf of everyone in the country," he said, stressing that the retired military personnel are not only fighting for their rights but for the rights of every citizen in Lebanon. 

Hankach also highlighted the broader issue of Lebanon’s unsustainable economic policies, pointing to the need for serious reforms.

"The key issue is to continue with reforms rather than covering the deficit from the pockets of citizens in an unproductive state."

Hankach also criticized the government's handling of the national budget, describing it as "illusory."

He pointed out that the Kataeb Party has consistently challenged the state’s budgets, arguing that mismanagement, coupled with a lack of accountability, has contributed to Lebanon’s current dire situation.

He also criticized what he described as the “absurdities” and failures of the sjubsequent national unity governments. 

"Our country has reached this point due to the absence of accountability and the flawed concept of a government based on national unity," he remarked.

Hankach expressed concern over the impact of Lebanon’s failing economy on the country’s youth, emphasizing that the current budgetary policies are pushing Lebanon's talented youth to seek opportunities abroad, exacerbating the nation’s brain drain.

"We want timely budgets," Hankach said, "but we must stop relying on the people's pockets to fund the state. Unfortunately, we are driving our talented youth out of Lebanon because of these budgets."