Lebanese MP Mohammad Raad rebuked US envoy Morgan Ortagus for her remarks on Hezbollah, viewed as an attack on Lebanese sovereignty. He condemned US interference in Lebanese politics and highlighted the contradiction of US support for Israeli actions against civilian populations, stressing the need for accountability in the context of international law and national integrity.
Lebanese MP Mohammad Raad criticized US Deputy Special Envoy Morgan Ortagus after her remarks about Hezbollah during her visit to Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Ortagus stated, “Hezbollah was defeated by Israel and we are grateful to our ally Israel for defeating Hezbollah,” which Raad condemned as an attack on a key Lebanese faction that is integral to national unity and politics.
Raad also took issue with Ortagus’ assertion regarding US-imposed red lines preventing political participation, labeling it a blatant infringement on Lebanon’s sovereignty and diplomatic principles. He characterized her comments as “filled with hatred and devoid of responsibility,” reflecting hostility towards the Lebanese resistance against Israeli aggression.
The MP stressed that critiques of corruption should not overlook the role of terrorism, pointing out the contradiction in US support for Israel. He argued this undermines the credibility of democracy claimed by the US administration. Furthermore, Raad condemned the US-backed Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, stating they reveal the true nature of terrorism and highlight violations of international law.
He concluded that the real victors are those exposing the aggressions of Israel, which he accused of committing atrocities against civilians. Raad emphasized that Israel’s practices—including targeting homes, hospitals, and civilian neighborhoods—were violations of human rights and international standards, arguing that it holds no right to self-defense under occupation.
The ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel is rooted in a complex history involving territorial disputes and differing national interests. Hezbollah, a Shiite political and militant group based in Lebanon, has traditionally been seen as a resistance force against Israeli actions in the region, while the US has historically aligned itself with Israel. Diplomatic interactions between US officials and Lebanese leaders can provoke strong reactions from local political figures, reflecting the sensitive nature of regional politics. The comments by Ortagus highlight tensions as Lebanon grapples with internal and external challenges, including sovereignty and political representation.
MP Mohammad Raad’s comments underscore significant tensions between Lebanese political factions and US foreign policy. His critique of the US envoy’s statements reflects broader concerns about sovereignty, national identity, and the impact of foreign influence on domestic affairs. The complex interplay between regional politics, nationalism, and international relations continues to shape Lebanon’s landscape as it confronts external pressures and internal divisions.
Original Source: en.mehrnews.com
