Makzoumi from Baabda: Security First and Decisive Measures to Reinforce State Authority

MP Fouad Makhzoumi spoke from Baabda Palace, stating:

The priority at this stage is Lebanon’s security, starting with Beirut and the protection of its citizens.

I presented to His Excellency the full scope of sovereign, security, and reform-related issues facing Lebanon during this critical period, stressing the urgent need to move immediately toward practical and exceptional security measures, following what we have witnessed in the use of Lebanese civilians as human shields in Aisha Bakkar, Raouche, and Ain Saadeh.

I called for an immediate meeting of the Higher Defense Council, the adoption of exceptional security measures, and raising readiness to the highest level.

I emphasized the need to strengthen the army’s deployment and to activate the role of security and intelligence agencies decisively.

I stressed the obligation to officially register all tenants and occupants, subject vacant apartments to periodic monitoring, and impose strict penalties—including imprisonment—for violations.

I highlighted the necessity of implementing the “Beirut Security” plan previously proposed, placing the capital fully under state authority as a key entry point to stability—meaning a weapons-free Beirut.

I stressed the importance of not abandoning our people in the south, ensuring a tangible state presence alongside them, protecting them, and avoiding a repeat of the experiences of the 1970s and 1980s.

Any defiance of state decisions, including positions taken by the Iranian ambassador, requires decisive measures that may go as far as suspending diplomatic relations with Iran.

We announced our support for the President’s initiative and the need to move forward with a clear political path to end the war through direct negotiations to stop the destruction and bloodshed.

I emphasized the necessity of adopting a clear economic and financial strategy, and developing a comprehensive plan for the post-war phase, as reliance on external support is no longer what it used to be.

It is essential to confine decisions of war and peace to the state, fully implement international resolutions, restore sovereignty, and reject any reality outside legitimacy.