Nawaf Salam: State Monopoly on Arms Is a National Priority… Lebanon Will Not Be an Arena for Others’ Conflicts

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stressed the government’s commitment to extending state authority and reinforcing internal stability amid the security and political challenges facing Lebanon. He affirmed that the current phase requires decisive action, particularly regarding the state’s exclusive control over arms, and rejecting any attempt to turn the country into a platform for regional confrontations.

In an interview with “Al Hadath,” Salam noted that the government is moving forward with its commitments while maintaining internal cohesion, denying any intention to conduct a cabinet reshuffle at this stage. He also pointed out that the option of negotiations remains on the table ضمن a comprehensive national approach aimed at securing a ceasefire and ensuring Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

He added:
"We wished that those who dragged us into the war had acted rationally before risking it again."

He continued:
"Each of Hezbollah’s six rockets came at the cost of 10,000 displaced Lebanese."

He said:
"Lebanon is years behind on the path toward limiting arms to the state."

He added:
"The ministerial statement that emphasized restricting arms gained Hezbollah’s confidence, yet the party’s rockets—along with their many consequences—have undermined the government’s credibility."

He stated:
"There is no discussion at this stage about a cabinet reshuffle. I am committed to all ministers and do not wish to replace any of them."

He affirmed:
"We will not back down from the government’s decisions to restrict arms."

He noted:
"Restricting arms has become more urgent today after the cost of the ‘support war’… and we have dropped the concept of a ‘ban on negotiations’ with Israel."

He continued:
"There is still no set agenda for negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, and the initiative for negotiations with Israel remains on our side."

He said:
"There was no shouting or any clash with the Army Commander… and while I do not call for a confrontation with Hezbollah, I do not accept yielding to its pressure."

He added:
"We are working to form a unified national delegation to negotiate with Israel. A ceasefire and Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon are the goals of direct talks."

He continued:
"It is not the duty of the Lebanese people to avenge Khamenei."

He added:
"The Revolutionary Guard launched drones from Lebanon toward Cyprus, and its members reside in Lebanon using forged passports."

He stressed:
"The implementation of the government’s decision to expel the Revolutionary Guard from Lebanon is underway."

He added:
"We will not accept Lebanon being used again as a platform to harm Arab countries."

He concluded:
"The state is the only refuge for all Lebanese, regardless of their affiliations."