A Lebanese Member of Parliament representing Hezbollah, Hussein al-Hajj Hassan, has stated that the primary focus should be on ending Israeli aggression and securing the withdrawal of Israeli forces before addressing the issue of Hezbollah’s weapons.
Speaking in an interview, al-Hajj Hassan reiterated Hezbollah’s refusal to disarm. He argued that once the “enemy withdraws, aggression ceases, prisoners return, and reconstruction begins,” Lebanon can then engage in a national defense strategy discussion upon which all Lebanese can agree.
He cited the ongoing Israeli actions in Syria as evidence, noting that despite the absence of significant weaponry or resistance, Israeli aggression persists.
Responding to the threat of Israeli military action if Hezbollah does not disarm, the MP stated that preserving dignity, sovereignty, and national integrity is paramount. He cautioned against surrendering to pressure and intimidation, advocating for a clear vision for the future rather than engaging in endless negotiations.
His comments come as Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raji revealed warnings received from Arab and international sources indicating that Israel is preparing a large-scale military operation against Lebanon.
Al-Hajj Hassan cautioned the Lebanese government against succumbing to American and Israeli demands, which he believes are insatiable, drawing parallels with the situation in Syria. He argued that disarming Lebanon would render it defenseless against renewed Israeli aggression.
He characterized Israel as an “aggressive and unjust state unwilling to make peace with any party,” asserting that Lebanon has adhered to the ceasefire agreement initiated on November 27, 2024, while Israel continues to violate it.
The Hezbollah MP urged Foreign Minister Raji to refrain from adopting Israeli and American narratives, suggesting that Raji’s statements more closely represent the views of the Lebanese Forces party than the government and appeared to justify Israel’s continued aggression.
The Foreign Minister has yet to respond to these claims.
