Kataeb MP Elias Hankach has called for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, warning that the war has only deepened Lebanon’s woes. 

“The priority is to achieve a ceasefire as soon as possible because this war has brought nothing to Lebanon but devastation, destruction, bloodshed, and increased emigration,” Hankach said in an interview with Al-Hadath TV channel. 

“This war began under the pretext of supporting Gaza, yet it provided no real support. Instead, it distracted the enemy, which ended up being distracted by us, without achieving deterrence or preventing violations against Lebanon. Therefore, we must stop the losses and damages inflicted on Lebanon as a result of this adventure. Otherwise, the consequences will escalate into further destruction and suffering.”

The Kataeb MP took aim at Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri’s recent comments that “politics is for us, and the battlefield is for its experts,” describing it as a surrender of State authority.

“This reflects the Lebanese state's abdication of its authority over decisions of war and peace, as well as its inability to impose control over all Lebanese territories, especially in the absence of a president who, constitutionally, is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces,” Hankach said.  

He also expressed concerns over Lebanon’s role in ongoing negotiations, emphasizing the need to safeguard national interests.

“We shared our perspective with Hochstein, emphasizing our rejection of Lebanon’s interests being sidelined. We will not accept an agreement between Israel on one side and Hezbollah and Iran on the other. Lebanon’s interests must be prioritized,” he stated.  

Hankach interpreted Hochstein’s visit as a sign of progress but cautioned that any agreement will take time.

“The agreement will not be finalized or come into effect for at least 60 days,” he said, calling for the State to assert its authority over all Lebanese territories and ensure that weapons are exclusively under the control of the Lebanese Army.  

“The reality is now clear to everyone: weapons have become a liability. They have failed to eliminate Israel, and all the grand slogans and set objectives have backfired. It’s time for everyone to learn from this and place all arms under the authority of the Army,” he said.

Hankach underscored the Lebanese Army’s role as the nation’s only legitimate defender, citing its successful campaigns against terrorism.

“The Army is the only force that protects the Lebanese people, and it enjoys the trust of the population. It has proven its strength in battles like Nahr al-Bared, Fajr al-Juroud, and the defeat of ISIS,” he said. “Now, more than ever, the Army must serve as the nation’s protector and the shield against Israel."

Hankach concluded by rejecting any foreign influence over Lebanese internal affairs, particularly from Iran.

“We refuse to allow Iran to dictate Lebanon’s destiny. Lebanon is a nation with a proud history of civilization and innovation. Neither Iran, Khamenei, nor anyone else has the right to decide our future,” he said.  

He called on Lebanon to reclaim its diplomatic position and align itself with historic allies to secure support for the Army.

“The youth of Lebanon are capable of determining their own destiny, ensuring Lebanon’s neutrality, and keeping it out of external conflicts such as this war, which is nothing more than a battle between Israel and Iran fought on our land,” Hankach concluded.