Geagea Accuses Hezbollah of Enabling Israeli Occupation, Warns Against Obstructing Talks

Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea has sharply criticized Hezbollah, accusing the party of effectively enabling the Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon. Geagea asserted that while Hezbollah's deputy leader, Sheikh Naim Qassem, is entitled to his opinions, these views should not impede the ongoing direct negotiations with Israel.

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Berri heads neither the executive power in Lebanon nor the deputies. When the results of the negotiations are sent to Parliament, he can offer his opinion as the head of a parliamentary bloc.

Geagea also addressed Speaker Nabih Berri, stating that Berri, like Qassem, is free to hold any stance, provided it does not obstruct the negotiation process. He emphasized that Berri does not lead the executive power or the parliamentary body. His opportunity to voice an opinion on the negotiation results would be confined to his capacity as the head of a parliamentary bloc, specifically when those results are presented to the Parliament.

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Hezbollah has brought back the Israeli occupation of South Lebanon.

This exchange highlights the deep political divisions within Lebanon, particularly concerning the country's relationship with Israel and the role of armed factions in national decision-making. Geagea's remarks reflect a segment of Lebanese political opinion that views Hezbollah's actions and rhetoric as detrimental to Lebanon's stability and sovereignty, contrasting with Hezbollah's narrative of resistance.

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Sheikh Naim Qassem can take whatever stance he likes but cannot obstruct the direct negotiations with Israel.