The head of the Lebanese Forces party, Samir Geagea, asserted that "the extension of the current war in Gaza to Lebanon is possible, but we should not waste time trying to figure out if it will escalate or not. Rather, we should seek ways to keep danger away from Lebanon, which is known to everyone: the actual implementation of Resolution 1701, which was unanimously approved by the Lebanese government in the presence of all political forces, is additionally supported by international consensus and issued by the Security Council, and 'Hezbollah' also agreed to it. The commitment to its implementation has been mentioned in all ministerial statements since 2006 until today. Therefore, it would be better if the officials refrain from 'laughing' at themselves, their groups, and the Lebanese people amidst this bitter reality we are living."
During a dinner in Maarab, Geagea clarified that "we cannot say that Resolution 1701 is implemented based on the current conditions we are witnessing in the south. Instead of invoking Israeli violations, let us strengthen our position, and let the armed presence in the south be limited to the Lebanese Army and international forces to prevent Israel from continuing its violations. Because then they will be faced with the Lebanese Army and 10,000 foreign soldiers present on the ground." He emphasized that it is the duty of the government and the Parliament to impose the application of this resolution; unfortunately, no one has the courage to take any decision in confronting the danger appropriately, and all they do is make statements and talk just for the sake of talking.
He continued, "All armed individuals not involved in Resolution 1701 should withdraw from the south. If Israel attacks the army, all Lebanese will stand behind it, and the 'Hezbollah' forces positioned in the rear will support it. Thus, it is unnecessary for 'Hezbollah' forces to be deployed in the south; where the army is present, they will be 'blind to the situation.' From here, the head of the Lebanese Forces considered that the reason for 'Hezbollah's' presence in the south is not to defend Lebanon but for reasons unrelated to it (Lebanon). Otherwise, it would allow the one who is tasked with defending Lebanon to perform their duties, which is the Lebanese state with all its relations, supported by Lebanese, Arab, and international consensus around it. In this regard, we have seen many international officials who have come to Lebanon and discussed matters with their Lebanese counterparts, regardless of how 'hypothetical' the current officials may be."
Geagea pointed out that "Lebanon being in the line of fire will not benefit the Palestinian cause, but rather will lead to total destruction for us. Hence, the essential question: Will the Lebanese government convene to make a decision for the effective implementation of Resolution 1701 and limit military deployment in the south to the Lebanese Army with the support of international forces? Notably, the seizure of the 'Resistance Axis' over the decision of war and peace, and the failure of any official to take appropriate steps to restore this decision to the state's jurisdiction, is what has led matters to their current state. Therefore, at the very least, we must restore this decision in light of this delicate and dangerous situation."
He added, "It is unacceptable for any party to determine the fate of the Lebanese people outside their will, represented in the Parliament and the formed government. Ironically, this comes from the 'Resistance Axis' and their dear friend, the Free National Movement. Therefore, I ask you, what is the injustice in returning the decision of peace and war to the government?"
