Lebanese Shiite cleric Mohamed Ali Al-Faouani appeared on Israeli public broadcaster 'Kan', launching a heated critique against 'Hezbollah'. He accused the group of causing destruction in Lebanon and turning vulnerable populations into victims of what he called the 'Iranian lie', while advocating for improved relations between the Lebanese and Israeli peoples.
Al-Faouani, a Hezbollah opponent living outside Lebanon, was listed in 2023 by the Religious Communication Authority of the Islamic Shiite Higher Council as one of 15 figures deemed unqualified for religious guidance and personal affairs. The decision cited general reasons like 'doctrinal or behavioral deviation' without specifying each case. Al-Faouani contested the decision at the State Shura Council.
In an interview with 'Fi Haratina' on Israeli broadcasting, reporter Roi Kais noted Al-Faouani's assertion: 'This organization brought destruction to Lebanon, making us a source of hatred and repulsion.'
He added, 'Hezbollah claims to be a religious organization advocating modesty and morals, but their actions do not reflect their words. As long as their members do not commit to their word, they are not truthful.'
He continued, 'Iranians brainwashed the vulnerable with the lie of the jurist's mandate, turning them into victims. They drove them to fight and die, shattering their dreams. Today, those who lost their loved ones harbor resentment towards Hezbollah.'
When asked if the party would relinquish its weapons or if this was mere wishful thinking, Al-Faouani responded, 'No, these are not dreams. Look at what happened to them in Syria; they fled from there.'
He claimed, 'Hezbollah knows that the people will turn against them eventually and hold a field trial against them.' Adding, 'If all countries acted against them simultaneously, they would collapse as they did in Syria within 72 hours.'
In closing, Al-Faouani sent a message to Israelis: 'To us, you are People of the Book, and there is no original enmity between us. Know that the Shiites are not part of the organization, and the public in Israel should tell their government: We want good relations with the Lebanese people; it is your responsibility to achieve that.'
Al-Faouani's statements reflect a deeply critical stance on 'Hezbollah', holding them accountable for Lebanon's woes and advocating for a different path in relations with Israel.