Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said Sunday that his government remains united in its stance on ending the Israeli occupation, stopping daily violations, and securing the release of prisoners.

In a televised interview, Salam reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and stressed the State’s right to defend itself against ongoing Israeli attacks.

Salam warned that Lebanon cannot move forward without “drastic and comprehensive reform,” describing entrenched habits and resistance to change as “among the biggest landmines facing this government.”

The prime minister framed his cabinet as a break from what he called previous “governments of national paralysis,” describing it instead as a government built on the principle of “national competence.” He noted that from day one, the administration launched a wide-ranging reform agenda in both the financial and economic sectors and prepared the long-delayed draft law to lift banking secrecy.

Salam added that the government has implemented a competitive and transparent system for public appointments while maintaining the delicate sectarian balance required under Lebanon’s political system. Still, he acknowledged that the confessional nature of certain posts continues to pose challenges.

On the economy, Salam said reforms alone would not be enough to attract investment without meaningful improvements in security.

“Restoring investor confidence requires turning the principle of exclusive State control over weapons into a real and enforceable reality,” he said.

Responding to suggestions that southern Lebanon was not a priority, Salam said his first official visit after taking office was to the South, highlighting his commitment to reconstruction there.

“We are actively working to mobilize funds for rebuilding and development,” he said.

The prime minister also dismissed what he called “fearmongering about civil war,” vowing that his government would not be intimidated by threats of internal unrest.

“Upholding the rule of law is a path from which there will be no retreat,” Salam said.