Salam: “The state’s monopoly on arms is in Lebanon’s interest regardless of Israel’s demands, as a state cannot have two armies.”

In an interview with The Washington Post, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam laid out his country’s vision for the next phase, defining firm positions on security and political developments and stressing the state’s priorities in asserting its sovereignty and strengthening its capabilities.

Salam affirmed that Lebanon faces complex challenges that require international support and effective political pressure, calling on the Donald Trump administration to play a direct role in this context and pointing to the importance of international action to achieve stability.

The أبرز points from his remarks:

“We urge the Trump administration to pressure Israel to scale back its demands and end its invasion of the country.”

“Lebanon cannot sign any agreement that does not include a full withdrawal of Israeli forces.”

“We cannot live with a so-called buffer zone where displaced people are not allowed to return to their towns and villages.”

“We have taken bold decisions and made progress in confiscating weapons and banning Hezbollah’s military operations.”

“The state’s monopoly on arms is in Lebanon’s interest regardless of Israel’s demands, as a state cannot have two armies.”

“Disarmament is a process that cannot happen overnight, but what matters most is that we have shown seriousness in pursuing it.”

“We appeal to Washington and Paris to help expand and strengthen our army, which is suffering financially in terms of equipment and training.”

“We call on partners to provide funds to confront the humanitarian tragedy and meet Lebanon’s reconstruction needs.”