The Kataeb Political Bureau held its weekly meeting, chaired by Party leader Samy Gemayel, to discuss the latest political, security, economic, and social developments. Following its deliberations, the Bureau issued the following statement:

1. The Political Bureau warns against Hezbollah dragging Lebanon into another so-called “war of support,” which would further devastate what remains of South Lebanon and expose the Lebanese people to yet more destruction and displacement. The Bureau therefore calls on the government to establish clear mechanisms to ensure the immediate and effective implementation of its decisions, including bringing all weapons under State control and banning Hezbollah’s military and security activities.

The Political Bureau also reiterates its call for Hezbollah to be referred to the Judicial Council, following the party’s public acknowledgment that it had transported explosives across Lebanese territory and among civilians. Those responsible must be identified and held accountable, with no exceptions and no political protection or immunity.

2. The Political Bureau welcomes the appeal issued by residents of Jabal Amel and South Lebanon, entitled “The South Is Not Someone Else’s Battleground,” which reflects their unequivocal rejection of turning the region into an arena for regional conflicts or a pawn in Iran’s regional ambitions.

The Bureau calls for urgent action to protect the South, end Israeli attacks, and secure a full Israeli withdrawal. These efforts must go hand in hand with ending Hezbollah’s armed presence, placing all military decision-making exclusively in the hands of the Lebanese State, ensuring the safe return of displaced residents, and rebuilding communities devastated by the conflict.

The Political Bureau further urges Shiite political and religious leaders to break their silence and live up to their responsibilities. The interests of the people of the South, and their fundamental right to live in safety and security, must take precedence over political calculations and any alliances with Hezbollah. The South is Lebanese land, belonging to its people. Its protection can only be guaranteed through the full and exclusive sovereignty of the Lebanese state.

3. The Political Bureau expresses deep concern over the increasingly difficult conditions facing residents of the steadfast border villages, who are enduring isolation, restrictions on movement, and growing difficulties accessing essential services.

The Bureau salutes their resilience and determination to remain on their land, and calls on the government to establish an emergency task force in coordination with the Lebanese Army, local municipalities, and UNIFIL. Its immediate priorities must include ensuring freedom of movement, facilitating access to essential supplies, healthcare, and education, providing assistance to affected families, and implementing an emergency response plan to ensure that these villages remain connected to the rest of the country.

The Political Bureau warns that prolonged isolation risks becoming a form of de facto forced displacement. It stresses that protecting these communities and ensuring that residents have the means to remain on their land are fundamental responsibilities of the state that cannot be delayed or neglected.