Beirut: Hezbollah Secretary-General, Sheikh Naim Qassem, considered that the government is failing to exert enough efforts to restore the country's sovereignty. He said, "The government must address central issues...Regaining sovereignty is one of the central issues. You must know that Taif is not a point of view; Taif is an agreement, not a vehicle for the balance of power. Taif is supposed to have become a constitution, and part of it, once implemented, must continue to be implemented.'
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Qassem questioned the cabinet's actions, asking, "What have you done to regain sovereignty?" He emphasized that expelling Israel from Lebanon and stopping the aggression are crucial steps towards achieving sovereignty. His statements were made during a speech on the first anniversary of the martyrdom of jihadist leaders, Sheikh Nabil Qaouk and Sayyed Suhail al-Husseini.
Qassem highlighted the challenges facing Lebanon, stating, "Lebanon is in the eye of the storm due to the Israeli aggression, the ongoing incursion, and the ongoing criminality, supported by America with its entire military, political, and media capabilities, as well as pressure in every form." He argued that Israel's goals are not guaranteed, asserting that international pressure does not ensure their success.
He stressed the importance of authentic citizenship in protecting Lebanon, urging cooperation among Lebanese citizens to safeguard the nation. He posed further questions to the government, saying, "Are you communicating with major powers? Are you trying to exert pressure? Move more, speak out more, submit to the Security Council, leave no room for anything but the necessity of restoring sovereignty...for it is the key to restoring stability and building the country."
Qassem also addressed the issue of reconstruction, criticizing the disruption in Parliament regarding the $250 million World Bank loan for infrastructure and institutional rebuilding. He called on the government and political forces to prioritize reconstruction for the country's progress and stability.
On the topic of upcoming parliamentary elections, Qassem pointed out the existence of a current law and criticized attempts to create a new "Election Law" tailored to specific interests. He advocated for fair representation, warning against enacting laws based on external pressures.
He concluded his speech by expressing a hope for divine guidance in working for the benefit of Lebanon, its homeland, and its dignity.