MP Nadim Gemayel strongly criticized Hezbollah’s use of weapons in domestic politics, accusing the group of undermining internal stability and maintaining an unfair advantage over other political factions. Speaking at a dialogue event organized by the Kataeb Party's Keserwan-Ftouh Chapter, Gemayel emphasized the need for national equality and the exclusive authority of the Lebanese army over military decisions.

Gemayel accused Hezbollah of using its arsenal to influence Lebanese affairs, pointing to previous incidents such as the “Black Shirts” intimidation campaign, the May 2008 clashes, and the series of political assassinations that Lebanon has witnessed over the past two decades. He argued that while Hezbollah claims to be engaged in a conflict with Israel, it has simultaneously fought an internal battle against its Lebanese rivals.

“We will no longer accept inequality among Lebanese citizens,” Gemayel declared, calling for a unified stance against armed groups operating outside the State’s authority. He insisted that the country must rely on itself to build a strong and independent future.

The Kataeb MP also warned of the dangers of large-scale emigration, particularly among Lebanon’s youth, saying it threatens the country’s long-term stability. He described what he called an “emigration of identity,” noting that many young Lebanese have, at times, lost their sense of belonging to their homeland.

He also urged full adherence to the Lebanese constitution and rejected any distinction between different armed factions.

“We say to Hezbollah: Surrender your weapons so that we may all be equal and live together in a country where the Lebanese army alone has the exclusive right to bear arms,” he said.

The event was attended by several senior Kataeb officials, including MP Salim Sayegh, Keserwan-Ftouh Chapter President Michel Hakim, Jbeil Chapter President Halim El Hajj, and Consul Jacques Hakim, the head of the Jounieh Merchants Association. Also present were former chapter presidents, Jounieh Deputy Mayor Roger Odaimi, local officials, and a large number of party members.

MP Salim Sayegh praised Gemayel’s speech, stating that it reflected the spirit of unity among Kataeb members and the broader Lebanese community. He stressed that the Kataeb was not a party of power but rather a model of principled political engagement in Lebanon.