Former Progressive Socialist Party (PSP) leader Walid Jumblat revealed on Thursday that he had recently informed President Joseph Aoun about the presence of weapons in the town of Mukhtara, confirming that those arms were handed over to the state nearly three weeks ago.

Speaking at a press conference, Jumblat explained that light- and medium-caliber weapons had been collected over time, especially following the May 7, 2008 clashes between Hezbollah and the PSP. He stated that the arms were gradually stockpiled during that tense period but were now surrendered to the state. 

“Weapons should only be in the hands of the state,” Jumblat said. “If there are Lebanese or even non-Lebanese parties still in possession of weapons, I hope they will turn them over in a proper and responsible way.”

Jumblat called for greater support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces, stressing the need to empower them.

Addressing Lebanon’s future, the veteran political leader stressed the importance of historical memory.

“The weapon of future generations is memory,” he said. “We must pass on the legacy of our resistance fighters and heroes who stood against Israel and its collaborators.”

Commenting on the latest regional developments, Jumblat said: “In this current round, Israel and the West, with the backing of the United States, have prevailed, but nothing lasts forever.”

When asked about the disputed Shebaa Farms, Jumblat affirmed that said area has always been a Syrian territory, emphasizing that it is governed by United Nations Security Council Resolution 242.