Hezbollah Indicates Openness to National Defense Dialogue

Hezbollah is open to engaging in national defense strategy talks, as stated by senior lawmaker Hasan Fadlallah. This willingness could lead to discussions about its military arsenal and disarmament following President Joseph Aoun’s announcement of drafting a national defense policy. Aoun recognized Hezbollah’s flexibility regarding these discussions amidst ongoing tensions with Israel.

In a notable development, senior Hezbollah lawmaker Hasan Fadlallah announced the group’s willingness to engage in discussions regarding Lebanon’s national defense strategy. This dialogue seeks to address Hezbollah’s significant arsenal that currently operates outside of state control. The lawmaker emphasized that this unification in approach focuses on halting aggression and recovering territory, and that Hezbollah is ready to participate once President Joseph Aoun establishes the conversation framework.

Fadlallah remarked on Hezbollah’s readiness to engage sincerely in talks that aim to produce a national defense strategy, stating, “We approach all sincere and enthusiastic invitations to dialogue with an open hand and mind.” This expression of willingness aligns with President Aoun’s earlier indication of drafting a comprehensive plan for national defense, which will encompass the future handling of Hezbollah’s military capabilities.

Concerning Hezbollah’s flexibility, President Aoun highlighted during meetings with parliamentarians that the organization has demonstrated significant adaptability regarding disarmament discussions. According to MP Sajih Attieh, Aoun mentioned Hezbollah’s readiness to cooperate effectively within a defined timeline related to the weapons issue. The president reiterated the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue, emphasizing that Hezbollah is a crucial component of the Lebanese political landscape.

This discourse on disarmament gained urgency following the devastating Israeli offensive in 2024, which resulted in over 4,000 fatalities in Lebanon. Following a ceasefire in November 2024, Lebanese authorities committed to integrating all armed groups under the national army’s command, positioning Hezbollah as the only militia retaining its arsenal post-civil war, per the 1989 Taif agreement.

Founded in the 1980s with Iranian support, Hezbollah has been labeled a “terrorist organization” by the United States but has risen as a formidable political and military force within Lebanon. Historically, the group has justified its armed wing as vital for combating Israeli aggression, leading to heightened tensions, particularly evident during the 2006 Lebanon War and the recent Israeli offensive in southern Lebanon in 2024, culminating in renewed military skirmishes that have heightened regional volatility.

Hezbollah’s expressed readiness to engage in national defense talks signals a potential shift toward addressing longstanding issues around its military capabilities. With backing from President Aoun, the dialogue could mark a significant step in Lebanon’s efforts to unify its defense strategy and integrate armed entities under state authority. The recent historical context, particularly in light of escalating tensions with Israel, underscores the urgency of these discussions.

Original Source: efe.com