Hezbollah lawmaker Hasan Fadlallah announced the group’s willingness to engage in national defense talks with Lebanese President Aoun. This indicates a significant move towards addressing Hezbollah’s weapons outside state control. President Aoun also noted Hezbollah’s flexibility in discussions. The urgency arises after recent Israeli offensives that reignited tensions and emphasized the need for a cohesive national defense strategy.
Senior Hezbollah lawmaker Hasan Fadlallah stated the group is open to discussions regarding Lebanon’s national defense strategy. This signals a potential change in addressing Hezbollah’s arsenal, which is currently outside state control. Fadlallah mentioned that Hezbollah is in regular contact with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to facilitate these talks.
Fadlallah emphasized Hezbollah’s unified stance on weapons and defense strategies, stating, “Today’s priority is halting aggression and liberating our territory.” He confirmed their readiness to engage in discussions once President Aoun finalizes the arrangements for dialogue, expressing a willingness for cooperation to create a national defense strategy that protects Lebanon’s sovereignty.
President Aoun supported this dialogue by indicating that Hezbollah has demonstrated “great flexibility” in cooperating regarding disarmament. He noted the importance of resolving issues through communication, as well as reaffirming that no armed groups should exist outside the state framework. Following the recent escalation of violence due to the Israeli offensive in 2024, these discussions have gained urgency.
Hezbollah is notable for being the only militia to retain its arms following the 1989 Taif Agreement, which concluded Lebanon’s civil war. It has historically defended its military capabilities as essential for countering Israeli threats, particularly in southern Lebanon, where tensions have frequently escalated into conflict, such as during the 2006 Lebanon War and the more recent 2024 violence.
Hezbollah’s commitment to national defense talks may signify a pivotal moment in addressing its military structure outside the state apparatus. With mutual recognition of the need for cooperation, the dialogue could create a pathway for a national defense strategy that clarifies Hezbollah’s role within Lebanon. The diplomatic approach emphasized by both Hezbollah and President Aoun may usher in a new phase of stability amidst historical challenges with Israel.
Original Source: efe.com
