Kataeb Party: Lebanon Is Not a Testing Ground Nor a Mailbox Nor a Bargaining Chip

During its weekly meeting chaired by Kataeb Leader MP Samy Gemayel, the Kataeb Political Bureau followed the developments in Gaza strip, including the scenes of destruction and the unacceptable killing of civilians.

The Kataeb Political Bureau emphasized the necessity of implementing international resolutions and returning to the principles outlined in the Arab Peace Initiative, which advocates for a two-state solution.

It also analyzed the positions expressed in the name of Lebanon, which warn of the expansion of military operations to include Lebanon as whole and the entire Middle East.

Based on its historical principles, the Lebanese Kataeb Party states the following:

Firstly, Lebanon is not a testing ground, nor a mailbox, nor a bargaining chip. It is time for our nation to rest from conflicts and destructive wars. Therefore, the Kataeb Party rejects Hezbollah dragging Lebanon into a new war to support its regional objectives and the aspirations of its regional sponsor.

Secondly, it considers the statement made by Prime Minister Najib Mikati, in which he officially acknowledged that the decision of war is not in the hands of the government or the Prime Minister, is an official admission of the collapse of the state's authority regarding the decision of peace and war, placing it solely in the hands of Hezbollah.

Thirdly, the legitimate authorities and peacekeeping forces are more than ever demanded to be strict in preventing any violations of the ceasefire agreement and Resolution 1701. They should also prevent Lebanese, Palestinian, and other fighters from using the southern soil for provocative actions and messages.

Fourthly, the Kataeb Party expresses its deep sorrow for the martyrdom of photojournalist Issam Abdallah and the injuries sustained by several journalists who were attacked during the course of their professional duties by Israeli shelling, deeming this incident a blatant violation of international laws.

It also emphasizes its rejection over the practices of harassment and bullying faced by the media by elements of the de facto authorities in the south, saying that this scene is nothing short of distressing and reflects the plight of the nation, which has been held captive for years.

Fifthly, we extend our message to our fellow citizens in the south, assuring them that we hear their cries, empathize with their pain, and share their concerns.

You are not isolated in this struggle, for the entirety of Lebanon stands alongside you, united in rejecting war, destruction, displacement, and futile ventures.