Beirut: Former Progressive Socialist Party Chief Walid Jumblatt emphasized during a press conference, attended by Democratic Bloc Head MP Taymour Jumblatt, that "weapons must be in the hands of the state alone." He asserted that any Lebanese or non-Lebanese parties possessing weapons should hand them over to the state appropriately.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Jumblatt revealed that he informed President Aoun about weapons located in Al-Mukhtara, which were surrendered to the authorities over three weeks ago. These weapons had accumulated gradually following the May 7, 2008, tensions between Hezbollah and the Progressive Socialist Party.
Jumblatt described efforts to consolidate and hand over light and medium weapons to the state, marking a new chapter in the Middle East. He emphasized the importance of passing down memories of heroism and resistance against Israel and its allies, stating, "The weapon of future generations is memory."
He acknowledged the recent victory of Israel and the West in alliance with America but reminded that "nothing lasts forever." Jumblatt stressed the need to bolster the army and internal security forces, highlighting the ongoing Israeli occupation and the destruction of villages. He called for the implementation of Resolution 1701.
Jumblatt's message about surrendering weapons was directed at all parties. He also advocated for full rights for Palestinians in Lebanon, irrespective of nationality.
Responding to a question about the Shebaa Farms, Jumblatt confirmed their status under UN Resolution 242 as Syrian territory occupied by Israel. He recounted a prior agreement with Speaker Berri and Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah in 2006 to pursue discussions with Syria and inform the United Nations for a resolution. Additionally, Jumblatt noted that Mount Hermon is occupied by Israel, with parts belonging to Lebanon and Syria.