Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea said the newly agreed ceasefire period represents a decisive test of the Lebanese state’s ability to impose its sovereignty across all national territory.
In remarks to Italy’s Il Tempo, Geagea stressed that Lebanon stands at a critical moment and cannot afford paralysis. He said the government must act without hesitation to implement its decisions, restore authority, and prevent a return to war.
Geagea argued that dismantling illegal weapons remains the top priority, saying no state can function while decisions of war and peace remain outside official institutions.
He added that the ten-day ceasefire window is a crucial opportunity to address the causes of conflict by extending state control nationwide, warning that failure would mean Lebanon has once again missed a historic chance.
On Christian communities in southern Lebanon, Geagea said border villages have lived in fear of displacement since the latest conflict erupted. He said he held intensive contacts with local leaders and senior U.S. officials to ensure residents could remain safely in their homes.
Continuing his remarks, Geagea said Hezbollah has seen a sharp decline in influence, claiming it now lacks real allies on the national stage and is increasingly fighting alone. He added that signs of weakening support are emerging even within its own community.
Geagea also said Iran is no longer able to arm Hezbollah as it once did, citing the closure of land supply routes through Syria and tighter controls by air and sea. He described the group as facing logistical siege and military decline.
On government action, Geagea called for implementing previously announced decisions, including disarmament measures, holding those responsible for war decisions accountable, and pursuing compensation claims against Iran for Lebanon’s losses.
He further argued that Hezbollah’s actions pushed Lebanon into direct confrontation with Israel, whereas Lebanon had previously aligned itself with the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002.
Regarding peace and possible direct dialogue with Israel, Geagea said Lebanon cannot achieve constitutional rule, stability, prosperity, or normal foreign relations until the state becomes the sole holder of armed power.
He concluded by urging the international community, including Italy, to support Lebanon’s government in restoring full sovereignty and ending the country’s cycle of conflict and disorder.
In remarks to Italy’s Il Tempo, Geagea stressed that Lebanon stands at a critical moment and cannot afford paralysis. He said the government must act without hesitation to implement its decisions, restore authority, and prevent a return to war.
Geagea argued that dismantling illegal weapons remains the top priority, saying no state can function while decisions of war and peace remain outside official institutions.
He added that the ten-day ceasefire window is a crucial opportunity to address the causes of conflict by extending state control nationwide, warning that failure would mean Lebanon has once again missed a historic chance.
On Christian communities in southern Lebanon, Geagea said border villages have lived in fear of displacement since the latest conflict erupted. He said he held intensive contacts with local leaders and senior U.S. officials to ensure residents could remain safely in their homes.
Continuing his remarks, Geagea said Hezbollah has seen a sharp decline in influence, claiming it now lacks real allies on the national stage and is increasingly fighting alone. He added that signs of weakening support are emerging even within its own community.
Geagea also said Iran is no longer able to arm Hezbollah as it once did, citing the closure of land supply routes through Syria and tighter controls by air and sea. He described the group as facing logistical siege and military decline.
On government action, Geagea called for implementing previously announced decisions, including disarmament measures, holding those responsible for war decisions accountable, and pursuing compensation claims against Iran for Lebanon’s losses.
He further argued that Hezbollah’s actions pushed Lebanon into direct confrontation with Israel, whereas Lebanon had previously aligned itself with the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002.
Regarding peace and possible direct dialogue with Israel, Geagea said Lebanon cannot achieve constitutional rule, stability, prosperity, or normal foreign relations until the state becomes the sole holder of armed power.
He concluded by urging the international community, including Italy, to support Lebanon’s government in restoring full sovereignty and ending the country’s cycle of conflict and disorder.
