Ambassador Zaki: Implementing the Principle of Arms Exclusivity Fully Aligns with Arab Summit Resolutions

Beirut: Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ambassador Hossam Zaki, stated that his visit to Beirut comes as part of the League's support for the Lebanese state's efforts to assert its sovereignty over all its territory and to ensure that all weapons remain under its authority. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Zaki mentioned during a special interview with "Al Qahera News" in Lebanon that the Lebanese government's decision to task the army with preparing a plan to implement the principle of exclusive arms control aligns with the resolutions of the Arab summits. The Arab League was quick to support this decision. He urged Arab and non-Arab countries to provide real support to the Lebanese Army, affirming the Arab League's commitment to offering moral and political support. Although the League does not have military support tools, it continues to seek regional and international backing for the army. Zaki indicated the League's willingness to participate in an international conference to support the Lebanese Army, aiming to generate momentum for assistance to Lebanon's stability and civil society preservation. He noted that the decision's internal repercussions and the associated political rhetoric led the Arab League Secretary-General's envoy to visit Lebanon to express support for Lebanese state sovereignty and exclusive arms control, while also helping to ease political tensions. Zaki emphasized ongoing support for Lebanon in its calls to the US mediator to pressure Israel to respect Lebanon's sovereignty and end territorial occupation. He pointed out that the disagreement over exclusive arms possession lies in implementation methods, not goals. Speaker Nabih Berri showed understanding and support for exclusive arms control, though with concerns about practicalities and timing related to Lebanon's complexities. Meetings with Lebanese officials reflected consensus on rejecting sectarian rhetoric and reducing political escalation. Zaki warned that such rhetoric could lead Lebanon towa rd dangerous paths. His meeting with Army Commander General Rodolf Haykal was described as excellent, highlighting General Haykal's deep understanding of the South Litani region. Zaki listened to the military commander's vision, which reflects the challenges faced by the Lebanese Army. He confirmed the army's commitment to implementing political directives and supporting state-building.