Security as a Tool, Not a Weapon: Dr. Nasser Al-Lahham’s Lecture in Bethlehem

Bethlehem: In a lecture attended by Bethlehem Governor Mohammed Taha Abu Alia and numerous security and political leaders, Dr. Nasser Al-Lahham emphasized the importance of law adherence and cautioned against security chaos amid the prevailing tensions in the Gaza Strip and Jerusalem. The lecture, which gathered hundreds of officers and soldiers, underscored security as a tool rather than a weapon. According to Maan News Agency, Dr. Lahham highlighted characteristics common to struggling societies, including the widespread availability of weapons, poverty, unemployment, political division, and corruption. He juxtaposed this with countries like Switzerland and Qatar, where weapons are seldom seen, to illustrate the detrimental effect of weapon proliferation on societal structures and economic growth. Lahham argued that the spread of weapons undermines systems and encourages impulsive decisions among the youth. Dr. Lahham also discussed the evolution of the Palestinian Authority's security doctrine from its i nception after the First Intifada. He explained that Yasser Arafat adopted a flexible approach, employing various strategies to pursue an internationally recognized Palestinian state. In contrast, President Mahmoud Abbas has favored a "soft power" doctrine, seeking achievements through diplomacy and political means while advocating for long-term popular resistance. The lecture further delved into the contentious issue of security coordination with Israel, a condition of the 1995 Oslo Accords. Lahham described the coordination as a double-edged sword, facilitating Israeli exploitation while restricting Palestinian law enforcement. He called for international forces to mediate and alleviate this burden, suggesting that comprehensive studies and lectures are necessary to guide Palestinian officers in aligning security practices with national interests. Dr. Lahham concluded by addressing the phenomenon of armed individuals in cities and camps, stressing the need for resolution through organizations and popular committees rather than security campaigns. The lecture, which lasted an hour, was well-received by the audience and featured an interactive Q and A session. Key excerpts from the lecture are set to be broadcast by Ma'an TV at a later date.