“Disarming Hezbollah Is ‘Suicide,’ MP Raad Warns—Endangering Lebanon’s Sovereignty”
Hezbollah MP warns that surrendering arms would undermine Lebanon’s security and sovereignty.
Beirut, PUREWILAYAH.COM — Hezbollah Member of Parliament Mohammad Raad, leader of the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc, has sharply criticised recent government moves to disarm his group, calling the decision "suicide" and warning it compromises Lebanon’s sovereignty and internal stability. He told Al-Manar TV that such calls reveal a troubling shift—making it appear as though Lebanon’s internal struggles are being shaped into external threats against its own people.
Raad argued that "handing over our arms is suicide … To say ‘hand over your arms’ is to say ‘hand over your honour.’"
He stressed that the Resistance’s weapons have safeguarded Lebanon for decades, establishing a vital balance of deterrence—even if the state itself lacks full defensive capability.
According to Raad, the decision was driven by foreign influence—specifically pressure from U.S. envoy Tom Barrack—and was made hastily, ignoring calls to delay the move and negotiate guarantees. He cautioned it may backfire, escalating internal tensions or plunging Lebanon into conflict.
Raad also raised concerns about the state’s capacity to defend the nation if Hezbollah’s arms were surrendered—highlighting that the army is funded externally while the Resistance remains the country’s true shield.
Context & Background
Government Plan: In early August, Lebanon’s cabinet directed the army to draft a disarmament plan to consolidate all arms under state control by year-end—a move seen as aligning with U.S. and Israeli demands and prompting walkouts by Hezbollah and Amal-aligned ministers.
Hezbollah’s Response: The group labeled the move a "grave sin" that serves foreign interests and undermines Lebanon’s solidarity and sovereignty.
International Pressure: The United States has pressed for disarmament in exchange for regional stability assurances—specifically Israel’s withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories and the cessation of airstrikes. Hezbollah rejects this sequencing, insisting Israel must act first.
Bottom Line: Mohammad Raad’s statement underscores a deep-seated tension in Lebanon: efforts to affirm state power are colliding with fears that disarming Hezbollah could tear at the nation’s fragile unity and defence—without adequate guarantees in place. (PW)
Source: Al Mayadeen