The National Bloc: Imposing State Sovereignty for Sustainable Stability

The National Bloc extends its congratulations to the Lebanese people on the conclusion of this painful chapter in Lebanon's history, hoping that, despite its challenges, the cease fire agreement marks the end of the wars that have ravaged the country and the start of a brighter future.

The sight of Lebanese citizens returning to their homes, alongside the entry of the Lebanese Army, are a beacon of hope for the restoration of security and peace. The return of legitimacy to the South and to all of Lebanon, backed by a political decision and international protection, is undoubtedly in the best interest of Lebanon and its people, as it guarantees that the tragedies of the past will not be repeated. This marks the closure of a chapter of wars and displacement that began in 1969, when we chose the ruling of militias over that of the state, thus opening the door to Israeli aggression.

However, this cautious optimism remains contingent upon both parties adhering to the ceasefire agreement and upon the Lebanese state’s firm determination to ensuring compliance by all internal parties, despite the harsh terms of the agreement, due to the massive imbalance in military and technological power between Israel and Hezbollah, which led to the catastrophic situation we are now facing, one that could have definitely been avoided.

We have spent the past year urging Hezbollah to voluntarily yield to the Lebanese state, to separate Lebanon’s front from Gaza, and to fully implement Resolution 1701. Instead, Hezbollah chose to forcefully concede to Israel, and accept terms that could threaten Lebanon's sovereignty. These terms were the only way to halt Israel to cease the war and end the bloodshed.

Now, more than ever, it is crucial for Hezbollah to hand over its weapons to the Lebanese State after it has failed to protect Lebanon. The complete restoration of State sovereignty with control over arms confined solely to the Lebanese Army, is the only guarantee to prevent the recurrence of this tragedy whenever Israel or Iran seeks to exchange messages on our homeland's soil. More importantly, this is the only way to ensure the unity of the country, its land, and its people.

Therefore, the National Bloc stresses the urgent need for the immediate election of a new president who will lead this process, alongside a national effort for honesty and reconciliation among the Lebanese. This will mark the beginning of a new era for the Lebanese state, one founded on sovereignty, justice, and prosperity.