Geagea Addresses Concerns Over Tensions with Displaced Lebanese Amidst Israel-Hezbollah Conflict.

Beirut: Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea has addressed concerns that rising tensions between Lebanese displaced by the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict and hosting communities could lead to 'instability' but not escalate to a 'civil war.' Geagea emphasized that Lebanese parties are not seeking such a conflict. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Geagea elaborated on the situation during an interview with Italy's Il Sole 24 Ore newspaper, stating, "They say that it takes two to tango. I don't see two components or more in Lebanon who want a civil war tango dance." He acknowledged the pervasive fear among people of being caught in airstrikes targeting Hezbollah members who are reportedly hiding among civilians. Geagea urged the need for individuals to work towards minimizing risks on a personal level. Discussing the future role of Hezbollah, Geagea remarked that the group could remain a political entity following the war, given its significant support within the Shiite community in Lebanon. He no ted, "Hezbollah has a major popular base among the Shiite community in Lebanon, and we respect this reality, that's why it can easily continue to function as a political party." Geagea further stated that while Hezbollah could maintain its political affiliations with Iran, similar to Lebanon's ties with countries like Europe, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, it should not simultaneously operate as an independent military militia separate from the state.