Kataeb Party MP Salim Sayegh sharply criticized Hezbollah’s role in Lebanon’s ongoing conflict, accusing the Iran-backed group of using civilians as human shields and placing operatives in displacement shelters to monitor residents.

Speaking on Al Jadeed TV, Sayegh stressed that Hezbollah has no authority in host communities and warned that citizens cannot rely on the militia’s goodwill.

“It’s clear who started this war and who is responsible for it,” Sayegh said. “Hezbollah launched a conflict beyond its capacity, serving Iran’s agenda without regard for the destruction it leaves behind. The party is illegal, it violates national consensus, and it has no right to demand the sympathy or support of Lebanese citizens.”

Sayegh extended condolences to the families of Pierre Mouawad, his wife Flavia, and Roula Matar, who were killed in a recent strike in Ain Saadeh. He criticized the government’s absence at their funerals, calling it a failure to support citizens.

“The State needs to communicate better with the public, provide clear emergency guidance, and issue instructions to municipalities and residents so they can respond effectively in times of crisis,” he said.

The MP also outlined preventive measures, including forming residents’ committees within buildings to coordinate evacuations and report problems to local authorities. He stressed that displaced persons should not be stigmatized but should avoid hosting individuals who pose security risks.

Sayegh further condemned Israel for what he described as war crimes, including the destruction of homes and villages, warning that these actions could constitute crimes against humanity.

On the diplomatic front, he voiced support for President Joseph Aoun’s efforts to pursue dialogue and diplomacy, calling it a stabilizing factor amid escalating violence. At the same time, he criticized the Lebanese state for failing to inform the public about rapidly unfolding developments.

“The people of Lebanon are left powerless, treated as human shields while the state provides no guidance,” Sayegh said. “Officials need to clearly inform citizens about safety measures, preventive programs, and emergency procedures. Lebanon has the expertise to respond better, but the government has so far left people to fend for themselves.”