The following statement was released by the President of the Lebanese Forces Party, Samir Geagea: "It was hoped that the 'Declaration of Palestine' in 2008, which clearly stated 'full and unconditional commitment to the sovereignty and independence of Lebanon,' and affirmed that 'Palestinian weapons in Lebanon should be subject to the sovereignty and laws of the Lebanese state,' would transcend the past with its mistakes and sins, opening the door to a sincere reconciliation that befits the authenticity of our two peoples. It was hoped that this declaration would shape the nature of the relationship between the Lebanese and Palestinian states."
He continued, "In parallel with this path, which was officially translated through the resumption of formal relationships between the Palestinian Liberation Organization and the Lebanese state, the Lebanese agreed in dialogue sessions in 2006, with the personal participation of Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, to dismantle Palestinian weapons outside the camps and organize them within them. Yet, just a few days ago, we witnessed a statement from Hamas calling for the 'establishment and launch of the Vanguard of Al-Aqsa Flood,' emphasizing the role of the Palestinian people in all areas of their presence to resist the occupation by all available and legitimate means, as part of the achievements of the 'Al-Aqsa Flood' operation and in pursuit of involving our men and youth in the resistance project and benefiting from their capabilities."
He added: "This statement is unacceptable in both form and substance as it infringes upon Lebanese sovereignty and attempts once again to harm the relationship between the Lebanese and Palestinians. It is established that Hamas and other organizations operate in Lebanon under the command and decision of Hezbollah, and it is almost impossible for them to carry out any military actions without the party's knowledge and approval. In fact, the party is the one requesting them to launch rockets for its military considerations; moreover, it is not possible for Hamas to issue a statement in this direction without Hezbollah's actual endorsement."
He concluded by stating that this is further evidence that Hezbollah has never adhered to any agreements it has endorsed, from the national dialogue resolutions to Resolution 1701, and not ending with the Baabda Declaration. It is painful and regrettable that the Lebanese authority, represented by the government, and especially its president and the ministers of defense and interior, have not issued resolute positions or practical measures, as if what we hear and witness is taking place in another country. The government is clearly required to pressure Hezbollah to halt this farce.
