Kataeb Lawmaker  Elias Hankach affirmed that Lebanon stands today at a historic opportunity that must be seized with utmost seriousness, given the current political circumstances.

He highlighted a renewed sense of hope among the Lebanese, driven by serious efforts to restrict weapons to the state alone, especially in light of the collapse of the Syrian regime and shifting political dynamics in favor of Lebanon.

In an interview with Radio Free Lebanon (RLL) radio station,  Hankach expressed optimism about the upcoming presidential election session on January 9, hoping it would yield fruitful results.

He emphasized the seriousness of the political movement in Lebanon and its potential to elect a new president who could restore political stability in the country.

Hankach underlined that restoring political order in Lebanon should not be limited to electing a president. Instead, he emphasized the need to build a real state based on new foundations, which can only be achieved through a reconciliation and truth-telling conference among the Lebanese.

Regarding the Kataeb Party's recent visit to Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, he noted that discussions went beyond the presidency to include disarming non-state actors and implementing UNSC Resolution 1701 under the leadership of the newly elected president.

Hankach highlighted international insistence on enforcing UNSC Resolution 1701 and stressed that any elected president must uphold this resolution to safeguard Lebanon's sovereignty.

He also warned against attempts to undermine the ceasefire agreement.

He stated that the opposing camp and its allies have lost their wager and that Lebanese citizens will no longer accept a president imposed by this axis, which has plunged the country into destruction and war.

On constitutional amendments, Hankach acknowledged concerns among some independent and reformist MPs but asserted that the constitution serves the public interest.

In light of Lebanon's critical juncture, he maintained that amending the constitution, if necessary, should not be ruled out.

Commenting on the potential candidacy of Army Commander General Joseph Aoun for the presidency, Hankach said the Kataeb Party could support his nomination. However, the opposition has not yet reached a consensus, as other names remain under consideration.

He noted that while Sleiman Frangieh remains insistent on his candidacy, the possibility of supporting Jihad Azour persists.

Hankach expressed confidence that the opposition would unite behind a single candidate capable of meeting the required sovereign criteria.

He remarked that Speaker Berri is eager to elect a president, albeit reluctantly, and predicted that General Aoun could secure 86 votes in successive rounds of voting.

He stressed the need for a president who commands authority and influences political life, expressing hope that General Aoun possesses these qualities.

Hankach praised Aoun's independence, noting that no one could claim leverage over him.

Hankach revealed ongoing communication with General Aoun, affirming his ability to meet Lebanon's needs at this stage.

He underscored the importance of the next president enforcing international resolutions, consolidating state authority over weapons, reviving Lebanon's diplomatic ties, and addressing economic challenges with austerity measures.

Hankach also insisted that the president must belong to their political camp, reflecting the struggles of their movement and fostering a culture of resilience.

He doubted that Speaker Berri fully aligned with Hezbollah’s stance on the presidency.

He reiterated that no president can be elected without Shiite representation, as the president must unite all Lebanese rather than serve a single sect.

He emphasized that international pressures will likely push Berri to take a definitive stance in the voting process.

Regarding Iran's influence, Hankach asserted that Lebanon is moving toward a sovereign state underpinned by legitimate authority.

He argued that Hezbollah's weapons have proven weakness rather than strength, calling for adherence to state authority as the sole protector of the nation.

Hankach recounted a previous meeting with U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein, where he criticized past approaches to Hezbollah's weapons as solely focused on Israel's security while neglecting Lebanon's internal stability.

He observed that the current implementation of UNSC Resolution 1701 benefits from closer international oversight and increased support for the Lebanese Army.