Lebanese Forces (LF) leader Samir Geagea voiced strong support for President Joseph Aoun’s reform agenda during a visit to Baabda Palace on Tuesday, commending what he described as “genuine efforts to build a real state” in Lebanon.
In comments after the meeting, Geagea praised the president’s performance over his first five months in office. “I have seen no trace of corruption in his actions,” he said, adding that the time had come to “build a strong state,” not as an external demand, but as an urgent national necessity.
On the contentious issue of Hezbollah’s arms, Geagea reiterated his party’s longstanding position, calling for a “clear timetable” for the group to relinquish its weapons.
“The existence of a single military power, which is that of the Lebanese Army, is essential for the establishment of a true state,” he said, indicating that “only the legitimate government has the authority to make decisions of war and peace.”
Geagea also warned that Lebanon could face prolonged stagnation if the international action plan proposed by the Quintet group, comprising the United States, France, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Qatar, is not implemented swiftly. Otherwise, “Lebanon will be left to its fate,” he cautioned.
Turning to the region, Geagea described the situation stretching from Yemen to Lebanon as “abnormal.” He also expressed hope that a “serious” agreement between the US and Iran could be reached, one that supports Lebanon’s sovereignty and promotes its stability.
His comments came as Iran and Israel reached a US-brokered ceasefire following nearly two weeks of conflict that erupted on June 13.
Geagea also emphasized the continuity of his relationship with President Aoun, noting that communication had remained open both before and after the presidential election. He said the meeting served as an opportunity to review internal developments and coordinate on upcoming decisions.
“There was total consensus,” he concluded.
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