Hezbollah: A Powerful Sovereign Ally to the Army, Says Leading Cleric

In the complex landscape of Middle Eastern politics, the ongoing discussions about the Resistance Front and its implications for Lebanon are crucial. Prominent Lebanese Shia cleric Sheikh Ahmad Qabalan has raised significant concerns regarding the potential impact of disbanding this movement, emphasizing that it primarily serves the interests of the Israeli entity.

Qabalan stated, “There is no benefit in elimination of the Resistance Front other than serving the interests of the Israeli entity. The ongoing political game is all right as long as it does not turn out to be a sovereign suicide.” He underscored the gravity of the situation by declaring, “A mistake regarding the Resistance issue places Lebanon at the heart of destruction. Lebanon’s sovereignty is not a property for sale… Any government violation of national sovereignty and the constitutional charter nullifies the legitimate existence of the ruling administration.”

The cleric cautioned against “political gambling with Lebanon’s future,” affirming that the army and the Resistance must remain united. “We will not accept any political or sovereign suicide. The army and the Resistance are a single national force, and any attempt to divide them serves Zionists’ interests. The army will remain committed to its national position and sovereign partnership, and will not fall into the Zionist entity’s trap,” Qabalan asserted.

He further articulated a pivotal principle that has been established in Lebanon: “No army without Resistance, no Resistance without army.” This reflects the deep interconnection between the Lebanese military and the Resistance, which many believe is essential for the country’s stability.

Recently, the Lebanese army submitted a proposal to the government aimed at disarming Hezbollah. This initiative was presented during a three-hour cabinet meeting, led by army commander Rodolphe Haykal. However, the plan lacks a specific timeline for execution and acknowledges the army’s limited capabilities.

After the session, Lebanese Information Minister Paul Morcos shared with reporters that while the government expressed tentative approval of the plan, it did not constitute an official endorsement. He indicated that the army would begin implementing the plan based on its available logistical, material, and personnel resources, which may require “additional time [and] additional effort.”

Morcos also mentioned that the finer details of the plan would remain confidential, revealing the sensitive nature of the discussions surrounding Hezbollah and national security.

Despite the challenges, Hezbollah remains a formidable military force in Lebanon, particularly in the face of ongoing Israeli airstrikes and violations of Lebanese sovereignty. These actions have prompted strong condemnation from Lebanese officials, who argue that Israel’s continued occupation of five positions in southern Lebanon represents a blatant violation of the 2024 ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel.

As the pressure mounts from Washington and Israel to disarm Hezbollah, many in Lebanon contend that these demands overlook the fundamental issue: the persistent violations of Lebanese sovereignty by Israel. The call to disarm Hezbollah is viewed by some as a misdirection from addressing the root causes of regional instability.

• Unity of Forces: Sheikh Ahmad Qabalan emphasizes the necessity of a partnership between the Lebanese army and the Resistance.
• Government Proposal: The Lebanese army has proposed a plan to disarm Hezbollah, though details remain undisclosed.
• Israeli Violations: Continuous Israeli airstrikes and occupation are viewed as violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty.
• Political Concerns: There are warnings against political maneuvers that may jeopardize Lebanon’s future.

In conclusion, the dialogues surrounding the Resistance Front and Lebanon’s military strategy continue to evoke passionate responses from various stakeholders. Sheikh Qabalan’s remarks serve as a reminder of the delicate balance Lebanon must maintain in the face of external pressures and internal challenges. The future of Lebanon hinges on its ability to uphold its sovereignty and navigate the complex geopolitical landscape.