Hankach: No One Protects Us Except the Lebanese Armed Forces

Kataeb Lawmaker Elias Hankach emphasized that “what truly matters is fostering unity among all sovereign forces, not necessarily limited to Christian groups. The goal is to create a model that encompasses various sects and regions, with a unified vision for Lebanon.”

In an interview with MTV, he stated that “Hezbollah’s loss is evident and undeniable. Unfortunately, when 35 villages in the South are obliterated, it is Lebanon that becomes the ultimate loser.”

Regarding the Israeli targeting of the Lebanese Armed Forces, Hankach asserted that “the Israeli aggressor does not discriminate. The Lebanese Armed Forces are fulfilling their duties without supporting the ‘resistance.’ No one protects us but the Lebanese Armed Forces.”

He pointed out that “the Emergency Committee was drawn into a war it neither decided upon nor prepared for, yet it managed to secure shelters, whereas Hezbollah failed to deliver on its promises.”

Hankach added: “We must not forget the friendly nations that rushed to assist Lebanon, while we saw no aid for the displaced from Hezbollah’s ally, Iran.”

He also highlighted that “Metn welcomed displaced individuals from all sects, not just Christians. Through the efforts of our youth, we conveyed the true image of our values, despite the constant accusations of treason directed at us.”

Hankach considered that “the Memorandum of Understanding between the Free Patriotic Movement and Hezbollah provided cover for Hezbollah, enabling its military arsenal to grow and its internal aggressions against Lebanese citizens to continue.”

He added: “The FPM’s awakening to the consequences of dragging Lebanon into this war, albeit late, is still better than no awakening at all.”

In response to Naim Qassem's statements, Hankach remarked: “Qassem remains delusional, believing he holds a balance of terror and a deterrent force.”

Asked about the campaign targeting MTV, he replied: “Lebanon’s existence hinges on freedom. Without it, we cease to exist.”

On the presidential elections, Hankach affirmed: “There is a shared commitment to principles and political stances between the Kataeb Party and the Lebanese Forces. We are aligned. However, the Army Commander enjoys broader support than the head of the Lebanese Forces, as he is nonpartisan and neutral, making his chances for the presidency higher than those of anyone within our political camp.”

Hankach said: “I firmly believe that someone like Kataeb Leader MP Samy Gemayel is the ideal choice for the presidency. He can lead us to the Lebanon we dream of, the Lebanon we have sacrificed for, and the Lebanon that aligns with our ambitions and our children’s future. However, the timing for such a step must be right.”