Kataeb MP Salim Sayegh delved into the complexities of the Middle East’s evolving landscape, describing a "unity of arenas" that has organically emerged across the region. He explained that the Middle East is transforming into a single battlefield between Iranian influence and its opposing front.

“No one wants Iran to expand beyond its borders,” he said in an interview with Sputnik Arabic, adding that Iran’s approach is driven by ideological, not pragmatic, calculations.

Sayegh highlighted Iran’s resistance to conventional political realism, citing its insistence on prolonging the Iran-Iraq War even after the United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 598 in 1987. The decision, which cost the country a million lives, culminated in Ayatollah Khomeini’s infamous declaration that accepting the resolution was akin to “drinking a cup of poison.”

“This lack of political realism poses significant risks,” Sayegh warned. “Many fail to understand that Iran does not operate with the usual pragmatism seen in global politics. It relies on ideological tenets, with the Revolutionary Guard driven by a belief in martyrdom, pushing conflicts to extreme lengths. The same pattern is visible with the Houthis in Yemen, who believe they can establish a balance of terror with Israel.”

On the other hand, Sayegh noted that Israel has also adopted an ideological framework but has successfully translated it into political action through alliances with powerful partners.

“Israel depends on allies who rationalize its conflicts, while Iran relies on doctrine alone, which could escalate conflicts to unprecedented levels,” he said.

Discussing Lebanon’s position in this volatile environment, Sayegh argued that the concept of a "unity of arenas" is no longer theoretical but a reality.

“When weapons shipments leave Iran and reach southern Lebanon, the arenas are united. If smuggling continues, it invites Israeli strikes, and we must remember that smuggling has not stopped,” he asserted.

He criticized the segmentation of arrangements in Lebanon, such as separating southern and northern Litani areas, emphasizing that all of Lebanon is bound by UN Resolution 1701.

“We have always wanted Lebanon to stay out of regional axes, but Hezbollah’s underground state, with tunnels connecting Homs to northern Bekaa and southern villages to Hamas’ operations rooms, has proven otherwise.”

Sayegh lamented that despite aspirations for an independent Lebanon, the interconnected nature of regional conflicts has made isolation impossible.

“The fall of Damascus affects Lebanon, just as the withdrawal of the Popular Mobilization Forces to Iraq impacts the entire region,” he said.

Sayegh observed a pervasive duality in regional politics, with hawks and doves shaping narratives within each country.

“From Israel to Iran, we see this dichotomy. Iran has a narrative led by the Supreme Leader, who promises to rebuild Syria’s resistance capabilities in under a year, while the state narrative seeks rapprochement with Damascus,” he noted.

Turning to southern Lebanon, Sayegh criticized delays in implementing security arrangements, stressing the need for serious action.

“The country is under a de facto military and security guardianship by international actors overseeing the execution of decisions,” he said.

Sayegh highlighted the complications surrounding the ceasefire agreement and Israel’s demands for compliance.

“What Hezbollah agreed to through intermediaries, and what the Lebanese government signed with guarantees from Israel and the U.S., requires mutual adherence. Yet, the mechanisms for Israeli withdrawal and Lebanese deployment have not been finalized,” he explained.

He warned that delays in implementing UN Resolution 1701 could give Israel pretexts to retain its positions in southern Lebanon.

“Israel has strategic interests, including the Litani River and Lebanon’s oil and gas reserves. It’s crucial for Lebanon to adhere strictly to the 60-day deadline to avoid giving Israel excuses,” Sayegh cautioned.

“The confrontation with Israel cannot be achieved through division. It requires unity under the state’s framework,” he said.

Sayegh also touched on Lebanon’s presidential vacuum and the recent visit of Lebanese Army Commander General Joseph Aoun to Saudi Arabia. He described Aoun as a figure committed to legitimacy and political decisions.

“General Aoun adheres to ministerial decisions for implementing Resolution 1701. Whether through force or negotiation, he will act within those boundaries,” Sayegh affirmed.

He called General Aoun a natural presidential candidate widely regarded as a stabilizing figure.

“His performance inspires confidence amid Lebanon’s and Syria’s upheavals,” Sayegh said, adding that Aoun’s nomination transcends political blocs.

Sayegh criticized Hezbollah’s continued militarization, stating that the group "must transform its military power into a productive force for the country. They have drained Lebanon’s youth and economy while imposing their will on the army.”

He warned against repeating past mistakes, referencing international skepticism over Hezbollah’s intentions.

“We will not accept a return to 2006 tactics of circumventing Resolution 1701. Those attempting to outsmart geopolitical realities are heading toward disaster,” he cautioned.

Sayegh concluded by emphasizing the importance of Lebanese unity and adherence to international resolutions.

“Our responsibility is to apply international decisions and confront violations with firmness. Strengthening our army and reinforcing the state’s logic is the only way to navigate these turbulent times,” he said.