Two former Lebanese presidents, Amin Gemayel and Michel Sleiman, along with three former prime ministers, Najib Mikati, Fouad Siniora and Tammam Salam, issued a joint statement on Friday backing the government’s position over the state’s exclusive control of weapons.
The leaders praised the government’s efforts to restore full state authority over Lebanon’s territory and institutions, including the decision to task the Lebanese Armed Forces with preparing a plan for implementing exclusive state control of arms, in line with United Nations Resolution 1701.
They described this step as crucial for ensuring national security, stability and sovereignty.
The statement expressed strong support for positions taken by President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in defending Lebanon’s sovereignty.
It also expressed concerns over Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Naim Qassem’s rejection of the government’s plan, which the leaders said could complicate efforts to reestablish full state authority.
The former leaders also called for calm political discourse, careful implementation of state authority, and greater Arab and international support to strengthen Lebanon’s governance, facilitate reconstruction and protect citizens’ economic interests.
Additionally, the statement addressed ongoing regional tensions, condemning “continued aggressive practices by Israeli forces in Lebanon and Palestine.”
The leaders noted that these actions violate the agreements reached on November 27, 2024, and called on the international community to ensure Israel respects its commitments and prevents further escalation.
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