The Head of the Kataeb bloc, MP Samy Gemayel, strongly criticized the presence of non-state arms in Lebanon, asserting during a press conference on Thursday that such weapons “neither protect nor liberate Lebanon” and “leave the country paralyzed.”
Gemayel argued that the justification for armed resistance is unfounded, stating that “before the so-called resistance began, there were no Israeli soldiers on our soil.”
He added that the continued presence of weapons has failed to protect the country, citing “the assassinations of its leaders, the destruction of the South, and the ongoing occupation” as evidence. “The so-called resistance is not working,” he declared.
He also revealed that the latest parliamentary session had secured a significant consensus, with more than 90% of MPs supporting the restriction of arms to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). “This was not just symbolic,” Gemayel noted. “It was a clear message of support from Parliament to the state, the president and the government.”
In addition, he urged the authorities to act according to the will of the people, as represented across all sects in Parliament.
Highlighting Lebanon’s stalled development, Gemayel stressed the urgency of catching up with neighboring countries in terms of prosperity, investment and job creation.
“Lebanon should not remain stuck at square one,” he said. “We are not a third-world country; we deserve to stand alongside developed nations that fulfill the aspirations of their citizens,” Gemayel concluded.
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