Walid Jumblatt, influential in Lebanese politics, discusses the pressing challenges facing Lebanon and Syria amidst Israel’s aggressive policies. Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, bombings in Lebanon persist, and Jumblatt criticizes international aid tied to reforms, emphasizing immediate humanitarian needs. He advocates for Syria’s new leadership and warns against normalization of ties with Israel, asserting Lebanon’s sovereignty and emphasizing the necessity of a Palestinian state for lasting peace in the region.
Walid Jumblatt, a seasoned figure in Lebanese politics and leader of the Druze community, has had a significant impact on modern Lebanon. Following his step back in 2023 as head of the Progressive Socialist Party, his voice remains influential amid turmoil in the Middle East, particularly regarding Israel’s ongoing conflict with various Arab nations. In an interview, Jumblatt emphasized the need for Arab states to recognize and resist Israel’s plans which aim to manipulate the balance of power in the region. He remarked, “Israel has a free hand. It’s up to the Arabs to understand the dangerous policy of Israel that is planning to dislocate the whole of the Arab world.” Historically, Jumblatt has navigated the complexities of Lebanon’s civil war and subsequent conflicts, leaving a profound mark on the political landscape.
As the anniversary of Lebanon’s civil war approaches, the country is facing devastation due to the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Jumblatt pointed out that Israel has routinely violated boundaries, attacking any location it deems threatening. Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, daily bombings of southern Lebanon continue, indicating that the ceasefire is effectively meaningless. He described this situation as an “illusion” and that it is a “big lie” to suggest that global pressure could meaningfully moderate Israeli actions.
Under the ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah was expected to withdraw its forces and dismantle weapons near the border, while the Israeli military was to retreat from southern Lebanon. Jumblatt commended the Lebanese Army’s efforts in this difficult environment, but lamented that major financial and international backing is necessary for fulfilling the reconstruction needs in the south. He highlighted the urgent need for foreign assistance in light of the World Bank estimating damages from the conflict at $14 billion, significantly impacting Lebanon’s already weakened economy.
During the interview, Jumblatt expressed frustration with international donors tying aid to reforms in Lebanon, criticizing the notion that humanitarian assistance to those affected by the war should be conditional. He also acknowledged Hezbollah’s diminished leadership and viability, urging the group to adopt new methods, emphasizing that it remains integral to Lebanese society despite its militaristic past. Jumblatt stated, “Hezbollah is part of the Lebanese society… You cannot exclude Hezbollah; you cannot isolate Hezbollah. It’s not democracy.”
On the shifting political landscape in Syria, Jumblatt supported the new leadership of Ahmad Al Shara post-Assad regime, advocating for patience with the new government. He suggested that providing support to Al Shara is essential for the people of Syria and warned against Israeli attempts to divide the nation. Jumblatt remarked, “Give Ahmad Al Shara a chance. Because when you give Ahmad Al Shara a chance, you are giving a chance to the Syrian people.”
As Israel continues to engage with Syria’s Druze population in an effort to undermine the new government, Jumblatt cautioned Lebanese politicians against normalizing relations with Israel. He reaffirmed Lebanon’s stance of not recognizing Israel, stating, “I’m not favouring and will never favour peace between us and Israel… I’m not going to surrender by saying I accept US, Israeli terms for a peace with Israel. No peace unless there is a Palestinian state one day, somewhere.”
The rapid changes in the Middle East following recent escalations exemplify the tension among nations, particularly in the context of Gaza. Jumblatt condemned the destruction in Gaza, attributing much of the violence to U.S. and Israeli motives, further complicating the already fraught regional dynamics. This situation underscores the ongoing struggle among various factions, highlighting the critical importance of dialogue amidst escalating conflict.
Walid Jumblatt’s insights into the current state of Lebanon and the broader Middle East underscore the complex interplay between regional actors, particularly in relation to Israel’s military actions and its implications for Arab states. His advocacy for a measured response to Israel’s aggression reflects a call for unity among Arab nations in confronting these challenges. Additionally, his support for Syria’s new leadership reflects a broader hope for stability and reconstruction in a war-torn region. Jumblatt’s remarks provide a valuable perspective on the intertwined futures of Lebanon and Syria and the significance of humanitarian aid unlinked to political reforms.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
