Kataeb MP Elias Hankach expressed optimism about Lebanon’s future, calling for the Lebanese state to reclaim its full authority while advocating for the disarmament of militias, including Hezbollah. 

Speaking to MCS platform on YouTube, Hankach emphasized the need for Lebanon to embrace sovereignty, implement international resolutions, and avoid further conflicts, underscoring the importance of focusing on the real victory for Lebanon rather than debating claims of triumph or defeat in the latest conflict.

“In my opinion, the real victory is that of the Lebanese State. This victory was embodied by the Lebanese Army in the south—a milestone we have awaited for 20 years," he stressed.

Hankach conveyed his belief that Lebanon will avoid further escalation despite recent disturbances in the south, citing clear international monitoring efforts aimed at maintaining the ceasefire and achieving a lasting truce.

Hezbollah, he argued, has no choice but to comply with international resolutions, particularly UN Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006.

“This is an international resolution dating back to 2006. If Hezbollah had adhered to it at the time, and if the Lebanese State had implemented Resolution 1701, we would not have faced another war, further destruction, and the loss of lives and mass displacement of half a million people. All this misery could have been avoided.”

He stressed that this time, enforcing Resolution 1701 would require discipline and international accountability.

“The international community will not turn a blind eye. However, this is not merely a demand from outside; it is the will of over 80% of the Lebanese people. We want the Lebanese State to take control, impose its authority across all its territory, and uphold its sovereignty without relying on foreign powers for protection.”

Hankach firmly rejected the outdated notion of the “people, army, and resistance” triology, describing it as obsolete. Instead, he proposed a modern vision consisting of “the people, the State, and the army.”

He called for all weapons, including those belonging to Hezbollah and other militias, to come under the authority of the Lebanese security forces.

“Lebanese and non-Lebanese militias must all submit to the rule of law within a unified central State framework. The weapons, artillery, and missiles they possess must be brought under the authority of the Lebanese Army,” Hankach insisted.

He added that the Lebanese Army, as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon, must replace militias in responding to any external threats.

“The Lebanese Army alone should be entitled to respond to any aggression, whether from Israel or any other nation. Militias do not reflect the aspirations of the Lebanese people. The army is the only institution capable of uniting and protecting Lebanon.”

Addressing concerns about potential clashes between the Lebanese Army and Hezbollah during the implementation of Resolution 1701, Hankach dismissed the likelihood of such a scenario. He cited the existence of political backing from the government and international community for the army’s role.

“Hezbollah must honor its commitments. Their ministers signed off on the ceasefire agreement freely within the government, and they cannot now defy a State institution, especially the Lebanese Army. This is a matter of respect for the State and its legitimacy,” he said.

On the topic of disarming Hezbollah, Hankach described it as the only available solution, reiterating the party’s failure to fulfill its promises over the past four decades.

“Hezbollah has failed to deter Israeli attacks, stop displacement, or achieve its goals. Ultimately, the only entity capable of protecting the Lebanese people is the Lebanese state, not militias or political parties.”

When asked whether Hezbollah could transition into a purely political party, Hankach stated unequivocally that “there is no alternative. Hezbollah will eventually become a local political party, and its military wing will be disarmed.”

Regarding the January 9th presidential election session, Hankach expressed doubt that a president would be elected, accusing Hezbollah of prioritizing control over Lebanon’s decisions on war and peace rather than working to resolve the presidential vacuum.

“The opposition, however, is stepping up its efforts. We are coordinating to rally behind a single candidate. Our current candidate remains Jihad Azour, and while the battle is not easy, we are working to broaden support. By January 9th, I believe we will expand our base, either for Azour or another candidate with the same qualifications.”

Hankach vowed that the Kataeb Party and its allies would continue to prevent Hezbollah from imposing its candidate, Sleiman Frangieh. He urged Hezbollah to reconsider its actions, integrate into the Lebanese political system, and stop functioning as a statelet. 

On the potential candidacy of Army Commander General Joseph Aoun, Hankach praised his leadership and achievements, noting that the latter has proven himself by preserving Lebanon’s stability during the collapse of the government, economy, and security.

"He confronted terrorism, maintained the army’s integrity, and enjoys strong international support. He could be an excellent president.”

However, Hankach stressed the need for consensus among parliamentary blocs.

“If an agreement is reached on Aoun’s candidacy, we will work to secure the necessary 86 votes to elect him.”