Lebanese President: The Military Wing of Hezbollah is "Over"

SadaNews - Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated on Tuesday that "Hezbollah, in its military aspect, is over," emphasizing that Lebanon has no choice but to negotiate.

In an interview with "Asas Media," Aoun clarified that the party "recognizes this reality and is seeking a dignified exit," pointing out that the Shia community is "fatigued after 40 years of suffering with no prospect."

He stated that the upcoming phase imposes "negotiation, not fighting," citing what happened in the Gaza war where it was "completely destroyed before everyone returned to the negotiating table."

Aoun revealed that he confronted the Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Larijani, with "harsh words," telling him: "The Shia of Lebanon are my responsibility, not yours," adding that the Iranian official "left the palace tense and then requested another appointment that I did not agree to."

The Lebanese president affirmed that he is a "statesman" who is not seeking political gains, and that his goal is to "build a normal country where Lebanese people live with dignity and prosperity and pass it on to future generations."

Regarding the role of the army and its ability to restrict weaponry, Aoun stated that the military institution operates "with wisdom and patience," but that "restricting weapons and decision-making remains the A to Z of state-building."

He confirmed that the army "is not powerless and carries legitimacy and the support of the Lebanese people," noting that the state "will impose its authority over every inch of its territory."

Aoun concluded by saying: "I promised you in my inaugural speech and I am keeping that promise. Things need some time, but we will arrive in the end."

On Tuesday, the visit of Lebanese Army Commander Rodolphe Hekel to the United States was canceled in light of tensions between Washington and Beirut regarding Hezbollah's disarmament.