MP Elias Hankach voiced optimism over the disarmament process in Lebanon, emphasizing that recent political tensions should not overshadow what he described as “a turning point” in the country’s effort to reclaim its sovereign authority.

Speaking to Lebanon Debate, Hankach said that “things are moving in the right direction,” adding that what is needed now is “support for this path, not skepticism.”

The Kataeb bloc MP confirmed that the ceasefire agreement brokered by Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri and approved by Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s government, including ministers from Hezbollah, remains in force. The agreement, he said, outlines practical steps to be taken in the coming weeks, “most notably the handover of weapons, which is expected to take place within a week or two.”

Despite a recent uptick in political rhetoric from Hezbollah, including what Hankach described as “theatrical and tension-stirring posturing,” he said the country was entering a new phase that requires a fundamentally different approach.

“Weapons will be exclusively in the hands of the state, and decisions of war and peace will fall under the sole authority of the state and its president, Joseph Aoun, who is committed to implementing his inaugural speech,” Hankach said.

He dismissed speculation surrounding alleged political concessions, specifically, unverified claims that Tripoli could be “traded” for the Golan Heights, as entirely disconnected from reality.

Hankaach called such rumors “transparent attempts to derail the project of restoring the state’s decision-making power."

"This is no longer just a hope; it is already beginning to take shape.”

Hankach stressed the importance of establishing a clear timetable for the disarmament process, both to reassure the Lebanese people and to gain the trust of the international community. He also pushed back against recent statements by Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem, who reiterated the group’s refusal to disarm.

“Such rhetoric appears increasingly out of touch with reality and the developments currently unfolding,” Hankach said. “Lebanon has entered a new era. The old logic of separating light and heavy weapons is no longer viable. Both threaten national security and must be handed over to the state through a structured and transparent process.”

The Kataeb lawmaker concluded by calling for broader public engagement on the issue.

“It is no longer acceptable for this matter to remain confined to negotiations between just two leaders,” he said. “As the head of the Kataeb Party has demanded, there must be a public and transparent discussion about placing all weapons under the exclusive authority of the state. The Lebanese people have a right to know what’s happening. Transparency at this stage is more critical than ever.”