Kataeb MP Elias Hankach warned that there is an ongoing attempt to dismantle Lebanon's State institutions, stressing the need to reverse the political and institutional actions of the past two decades.

In an interview with LBCI, Hankach underscored the need for political stability in Lebanon, stating that confidence in the country is vital both for foreign relations and for establishing a sustainable economy. The ongoing challenges, he argued, can only be addressed through a concerted effort to reinstate the rule of law and political order.

The lawmaker also called for strengthening the judiciary, which he views as the cornerstone for rebuilding the State.

Hankach also expressed concern over the prolonged closure of Lebanon’s Parliament, which has remained shut for more than a year. He criticized Speaker Nabih Berri, claiming that the move to suspend parliamentary activities took place well before the onset of the ongoing conflict, thus violating the country’s constitutional framework. Hankach, therefore, insisted that Lebanon’s Constitution must be upheld, and political life must be reinstated urgently.

As Lebanon enters a new phase, Hankach highlighted the opportunity to build a functioning State, stressing that the country’s history is marked by the sacrifices of key figures who have guided Lebanon through its toughest times. He called for a united political effort, stating, “No one is above the State,” and reiterated that the State has been the one to bear the brunt of the country’s crises.

“We have an opportunity to rebuild Lebanon, and we need to engage with all political factions to discuss and address our concerns,” Hankach said. 

On the issue of Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon, Hankach was critical, noting that the group’s actions have led the country into a war that the majority of Lebanese did not seek. He accused Hezbollah’s MPs of now directing their criticism at the State for shouldering the financial and logistical burden of accommodating the displaced in shelter centers, and warned that the displacement crisis could lead to serious security and social challenges.

“If Hezbollah officials are among the displaced, it could endanger the lives of everyone else,” Hankach said, also highlighting potential issues in host communities where tensions are rising over the increased refugee population.

Hankach reiterated his call for the immediate implementation of UN Resolution 1701, urging that pressure be applied to Israel to cease its military operations against Lebanon. He condemned the continued violence, describing it as “criminal,” and questioned whether Lebanon’s future should depend on the outcome of the U.S. elections.

He warned that any settlement that does goes against Lebanon’s Constitution and international law would have disastrous consequences for the country.

“Hezbollah’s weapons have only brought destruction to Lebanon,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of disarming non-state actors and ensuring that only the Lebanese State has control over its military forces.

Hankach also praised the Lebanese Army, reaffirming that it is the only institution capable of defending the country.

“Whenever there are attacks on the army, it reinforces the fact that it is the sole protector of Lebanon,” he said, while questioning Hezbollah’s effectiveness in defending Lebanon, particularly after the destruction of villages in the south.

Looking to the future, Hankach called for the election of a new president, noting that the president is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and the country’s representative abroad. He, therefore, urged Speaker Berri to convene the Parliament and allow MPs to remain in session until a new president is elected.