Lebanese MPs Criticize Hezbollah for Refusing to Disarm, Warn of Civil War

Kokcha News Agency – In Lebanon, several members of parliament, including Justice Minister Adel Nassar, have expressed strong criticism of Hezbollah for its refusal to disarm, warning that the country could face the risk of civil war.

Justice Minister Nassar, in a written statement, said, “The threat by some to destroy Lebanon in order to defend their weapons puts an end to the claim that these weapons are for defending Lebanon.”

Independent Sunni MP Ashraf Rifi responded to Hezbollah Deputy Secretary General Naim Qassem, who had stated that “the Lebanese government is responsible for any internal chaos,” by saying, “We warn Hezbollah against repeating its threats of civil war.”

Rifi added, “Sheikh Naim Qassem’s party has left Lebanon with the legacy of occupation, humanitarian and economic disaster. Today, after defeat, it threatens the state and the Lebanese people, claims victimhood, and accuses the majority of Lebanese of treason.”

Elias Hankach, a member of the right-wing Christian Kataeb Party, stated in a written statement, “Naim Qassem’s words threaten the lives of the people, the legitimacy of Lebanon, and the entire country.”

Independent Sunni MP Waddah Sadek emphasized that social peace should not be used as a tool for blackmail or sectarian tension, saying, “The lives of the Lebanese people are not in the hands of any party, group, or sect.”

Ghayath Yazbek, a member of the Christian Lebanese Forces party, said, “Sheikh Naim Qassim is fighting Israel with his words and destroying Lebanon with his actions. Don’t threaten us, Sheikh; we are already in the midst of a general massacre. Have mercy on Lebanon.”

Hezbollah Leader Vows Not to Disarm
Hezbollah Deputy Secretary General Naim Qassem had previously stated that Hezbollah “will not lay down its arms as long as the Israeli occupation continues,” adding that they will “fight the Israeli-American project at any cost.”

Qassim also said, “The Lebanese government is entirely responsible for any internal chaos and for failing to fulfill its duty to defend the country’s territory. Stop the attacks and remove Israel from Lebanon. We will provide all necessary facilities when discussing national and strategic security.”