Title: Hassabani: Lebanon in a Very Fragile Situation and Cannot Afford to be Drawn into Conflicts

Former Deputy Prime Minister Ghassan Hassabani pointed out that "it is clear that Lebanon is in a state of danger and conflict, due to the presence of military forces outside the legitimate forces on Lebanese territory, which are part of the regional game and could draw the conflict into Lebanese territory as the confrontation develops." In an interview with "Al-Hadath," Hassabani said, "So far, the situation remains within the rules of engagement that have existed for years between Hezbollah and the Israeli army, but if the situation in Gaza worsens, there are discussions about Hezbollah intervening widely," emphasizing that "Lebanon cannot withstand this and the situation is fragile to the extent that any military movement against Lebanon would be devastating." He added, "Unfortunately, the Lebanese government is still absent from the scene, and there are discussions about a cabinet meeting. There is a complete absence and inability to make a sovereign decision, in addition to the lack of a president, the pressing Syrian displacement, and the deteriorating economic situation; all these factors put Lebanon in a very difficult position." Hassabani also confirmed that "the Palestinian cause is just, but the timing of involving the Palestinian or Lebanese people in destructive military wars depends on the forces or countries that make the decision instead of the official authorities." He concluded by stating, "Lebanon is in a very fragile state and collapsing economically and politically, and we hope it will not be drawn into conflicts as it cannot bear them. Even Hezbollah's environment is unable to withstand a wide-scale aggression."