Hezbollah Will Not Cede Ground on Weapons or Israeli Movement, Says Loyalist MP

A member of parliament from the "Loyalty to the Resistance" bloc has pushed back against government efforts to restrict armed group activities, characterizing such measures as a gift to Israel.

Dr. Hussein Haj Hassan made his remarks during a radio interview, contending that the Lebanese state has committed a strategic error by placing resistance military operations outside the framework of law. This decision, he argued, effectively serves Israeli interests without cost.

Hassan dismissed recent criticism directed at the resistance around Liberation Day, stating that such attacks should be redirected toward Israel, which remains the occupying force. He called it "absurd" to fault the resistance for defending Lebanese territory.

The parliamentarian drew a critical distinction regarding the current security situation, asserting that what exists on the ground is not a genuine ceasefire but rather unilateral Israeli access to Lebanese airspace and territory. He characterized this as a violation of previous understandings meant to halt military operations.

Turning to broader regional diplomacy, Hassan noted that ongoing talks between Iran and the United States are expected to address Lebanon's status. He emphasized that Iran has rejected any arrangement permitting Israeli operational freedom within Lebanon or a return to conditions predating March 2.

Hassan underscored Hezbollah's commitment to the November 27, 2024 agreement, provided both parties honor its terms. He rejected any rollback to earlier arrangements.

On Tehran's role, Hassan stressed that Iran functions as an ally rather than a decision-maker for the Lebanese resistance. He stated that consultations occur with Iran, but that Hezbollah's positions reflect Lebanese interests independently. "Iran is not negotiating on our behalf, nor on our weapons or our resistance," he said.

The weaponry maintained by the group, Hassan contended, carries no political cost and emerged during periods when state institutions were unable to provide security. This position reflects the organization's steadfast defense doctrine against internal and external challenges.

Hassan warned that the government's current trajectory threatens to destabilize the country. While Hezbollah seeks stability, he suggested that the government's security approach risks street-level confrontation. He noted that removing the government through popular action had been presented as a theoretical possibility rather than a settled strategy.

The parliamentarian called on officials to pursue policies serving the national interest rather than amplifying internal divisions or yielding to external pressure, particularly regarding the "Al-Qard Al-Hassan" financial matter.

Regarding relations with the presidency, Hassan indicated there is neither rupture nor active communication. He suggested that political developments warrant review by President Joseph Aoun.

Hassan concluded by stating that Hezbollah would respect the outcomes of an upcoming security meeting in New York if they serve Lebanese interests. However, he made clear the organization would not accept any ambiguous ceasefire arrangement that permits Israeli movement within Lebanese territory.