Dargham: Optimism Regarding the Presidential Level and Activating Initiatives

Member of the "Strong Lebanon" bloc, MP Asaad Dargham, pointed out that the "Free Patriotic Movement" affirmed at the beginning of the war its rejection of the unification of arenas given the economic and social conditions in Lebanon. In an interview with "Voice of Lebanon" radio, he highlighted that "Hezbollah has martyrs defending Lebanon, and one cannot discuss our internal disagreements amidst the ongoing war," emphasizing that "after electing a president for the republic, the priority should be to establish a defensive strategy." He noted that "everyone in Lebanon, including Hezbollah, does not want to expand the war, but this does not mean that any military mistake by either side will not lead to a slip into a full-scale war." He considered that "under the current situation, the government is not at the required level and should express the stance of the majority of the Lebanese people." Regarding the presidency, he confirmed that "Lebanon is at the heart of the battle, but one should not link the presidential elections to the ongoing war in the south and Gaza," noting that "there is optimism at the moment and activation of initiatives, particularly from the five-member committee, hoping to reach common lists, at least for the convening of the Parliament. If the attempt fails, we will have done what we must as MPs." As for the anticipated visit of the head of the "Free Patriotic Movement," MP Gebran Bassil, to Ain al-Tineh, he affirmed that whether it happens or not, communication is always ongoing with Ain al-Tineh regarding all issues.