Gemayel, Abdel Massih call for clear disarmament timeline
Following the meeting, Abdel Massih described the Kataeb Party as 'a primary political ally,' emphasizing the importance of consulting with Gemayel amid pressing challenges, chief among them the disarmament of all armed groups and the anticipated visit of U.S. envoy Tom Barrack to Beirut.
He stressed the 'need for the state, notably the government, to establish a clear timetable for disarmament,' expressing hope that 'the decision to disarm comes from Hezbollah before it is enforced by the Lebanese state.' Abdel Massih added that rallying behind state institutions would foster an environment conducive to leading Lebanon 'out of the dark tunnel toward stability and investment.'
Highlighting regional contrasts, Abdel Massih outlined "the rapid government-led investments taking place in Syria," saying "Lebanon should be a land of investment, not wars; a land of future opportunities, not conflicts.'
He called for an end to the ongoing divisions over the issue of non-state weapons, stressing that now is the time to resolve this matter and chart a new course for Lebanon.
"We hope this begins with a promising summer and a thriving tourism season that restores hope and growth.'
The lawmaker further pointed out that Hezbollah, as a member of the Lebanese government, is bound by the ministerial statement, which reflects the president's inaugural speech that calls for the state's exclusive control of arms.
'Therefore, Hezbollah has no alternative; it is the party that signed the ceasefire agreement with Israel and committed to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701,' he said.
He concluded by emphasizing the legal, constitutional, and national necessity of disarmament.
'Weapons do not protect Lebanon; they are the root cause of crises and collapse, and they risk triggering sanctions. The European Union has placed Lebanon on its gray list and may soon move it to the blacklist. It is time to draw a red line and focus on building Lebanon's institutions and prosperity; this is something that can only happen by confining weapons to the legitimate authority of the state.'
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