Salam Asserts State Authority, Denounces Hezbollah Operations as Illegal

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has declared that Hezbollah operates "outside the law," underscoring the imperative to restore full state control across Lebanon's territory in line with the Taif Agreement. In remarks made during an exclusive conversation with Al-Arabiya, Salam emphasized that the Lebanese government alone possesses the authority to conduct negotiations representing national interests.

The prime minister hailed Saudi Arabia's decision to reopen its market to Lebanese exports as a watershed moment for the country. He expressed gratitude to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, characterizing the move as a confidence-building measure that signals faith in Lebanon's reform efforts and creates pathways for economic expansion and political stability.

Salam noted the timing of the Saudi initiative comes as Lebanon navigates severe economic and financial difficulties. The resumption of trade, he suggested, demonstrates regional support for the structural reforms the Lebanese government is pursuing to address its fiscal crisis.

Elaborating on Lebanon's broader diplomatic positioning, Salam stressed the nation's efforts to rebuild ties with Arab states, asserting that regional partners' backing remains crucial as Lebanon confronts its mounting economic challenges.

On Iran's role in Lebanon's security landscape, Salam maintained that Tehran has not genuinely supported Lebanon. He argued that Iran's most beneficial contribution would be to keep Lebanon out of regional hostilities, suggesting that Iranian military actions against Israel instead deepen Lebanese involvement in the conflict rather than provide meaningful assistance.

Salam reaffirmed that legitimate state institutions bear sole responsibility for representing Lebanese citizens and safeguarding their welfare. He stressed that negotiations must proceed through official governmental channels, dismissing alternative power centers' claims to diplomatic authority.

The prime minister acknowledged that Lebanon delayed too long in consolidating state authority across all regions. He called for urgent strengthening of governmental presence and institutional capacity—both security and administrative—throughout the country.

Centralized control over political and security matters, Salam insisted, forms the foundation for restoring stability. Any discussions concerning the nation's future or defense posture must occur exclusively through state mechanisms, he stated.

Characterizing the current conflict as fundamentally "a war between Iran and Israel conducted on Lebanese territory," Salam highlighted how Lebanese citizens bear the consequences of regional tensions that extend beyond national borders. He concluded by advocating for Lebanon's disengagement from external conflicts and prioritization of state-led governance, measures he presented as essential for safeguarding domestic tranquility and preserving Lebanon's standing with Arab and international partners.