Kataeb MP Salim Sayegh has sharply criticized the remarks made by Hezbollah Chief Sheikh Naim Qassem, pointing to the stark contrast between the militant group's rhetoric and the reality on the ground in Lebanon. 

In an interview on Al-Hadath channel, Sayegh reflected on the party's narrative, describing it as disconnected from the historical struggles of the Lebanese people and their aspirations for liberation. According to Sayegh, Hezbollah's involvement in the region has harmed Lebanon rather than defending it.

"Today, we are witnessing a narrative far removed from the struggle to liberate Lebanon. The occupation of some Lebanese territories resulted from Hezbollah's support operations for Gaza. A year later, the Israeli army attacked Lebanon, destroying infrastructure, occupying lands, and leading to the ceasefire agreement, which Hezbollah negotiated. This agreement, essentially a document of surrender, led Hezbollah to dismantle its military infrastructure and implicitly transition into a political party," he stated.

Sayegh emphasized that Hezbollah’s long-standing rhetoric should not be taken at face value, as it often contradicts the realities on the ground.

"We must carefully listen to Hezbollah's statements over time and recognize that the reality on the ground is often the opposite of their claims," he added.

While acknowledging the party’s proficiency in wartime propaganda, Sayegh stressed that Hezbollah’s current narrative distorts the true situation in Lebanon.

In a strong condemnation of Hezbollah’s recent actions, Sayegh pointed out that the Lebanese people, particularly those displaced by the Israeli occupation, have the right to return to their villages safely. However, he asserted that Hezbollah cannot use these vulnerable individuals as mere shields for its own protection. 

Hezbollah’s military setbacks, according to Sayegh, have led the party to focus on rebuilding its image and influence in Lebanon.

"Hezbollah was crushed in its recent war against Israel, its military capabilities were obliterated, and it is now trying to rebuild its forces, at least morally," he said, speculating that Hezbollah may be attempting to regain some political power to justify retaining its weapons in southern Lebanon, specifically north of the Litani River. This, he claimed, is part of a broader effort to create illusions of success and bolster the party’s standing in future negotiations.

"We are approaching the formation of a government that may deny Hezbollah its usual spoils, and the party is seeking to create illusions of accomplishments on the ground to elevate its bargaining power in negotiations. However, this strategy has become well exposed," Sayegh stated.

Furthermore, the lawmaker accused Hezbollah of attempting to seize control over Lebanon's financial decisions, highlighting the key financial positions in the state that Hezbollah appears to be targeting.

"There are three or four key financial positions in the state: the Court of Audit, the Financial Prosecutor, and the Finance Minister, who oversees other ministries' budgets and financial approvals. By dominating these posts, Hezbollah seeks to control other ministries. This is not speculation; it is the reality in the last three governments."

Sayegh emphasized that Hezbollah’s control over Lebanon’s financial decision-making is part of a broader strategy to disrupt governance and maintain its grip on the country.

"Through financial decision-making, Hezbollah aims to disrupt governance further and maintain its position in Lebanon's political landscape, as if it still holds full military and security control. The Lebanese people reject this after all the tragedies caused by Hezbollah’s actions," he said.

The Kataeb MP also expressed disappointment with Hezbollah's treatment of the Lebanese people, particularly those who have supported the group through difficult times. He criticized the recent intimidation tactics used by Hezbollah supporters, which included motorbike parades and gunfire in various neighborhoods across Beirut and Mount Lebanon.

"Last night, over 200 motorbikes roamed the streets of Jdeideh in Mount Lebanon, firing shots into the air. Who are these displays aimed at? Their fellow citizens who supported them when Israel targeted their people and destroyed the southern suburbs? Is this how they repay the favor?" Sayegh asked.

He also criticized Hezbollah's disregard for national unity, noting that there is no more genuine popular support for the party.

"We spent the night contacting our people in areas where motorbike convoys were active, urging them not to react. We do not want to be dragged into a civil confrontation with illegal weapons. Instead, we rely on the Lebanese Army to uphold its duty," he explained, stressing that Lebanon’s future should be guided by the rule of law and state institutions.

"Hezbollah is trying to undermine the authority of the Army, the security forces, and the presidency. Sheikh Naim Qassem speaks one way but has different intentions. While he claims to rely on the President, who until recently was the Army Commander, Hezbollah’s followers attacked the Army yesterday. The recent provocations in Mount Lebanon and central Beirut are direct attacks on the administration led by General Joseph Aoun," Sayegh stated.

Sayegh concluded by reaffirming that the Lebanese people would not fall into Hezbollah's traps.

"We will not play Hezbollah’s game, no matter the cost. We will not be dragged into the logic of militias and the terrorist tactics they impose on the people of Beirut and Mount Lebanon. We stand firm with the state, the law, and established norms," he said, expressing confidence that Lebanon’s legitimate authorities, including the Army and security forces, will bring those responsible for recent violent acts to justice.