Lebanese politician urges Hezbollah to hand over weapons and boost drive for peace

Lebanon's Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Elias Bou Saab, has called on Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah to disarm in an effort to end the ongoing Israeli attacks that have resulted in thousands of deaths. Speaking at the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, Mr. Bou Saab emphasized the importance of all weapons in the country ending up in the hands of the national army. He expressed concern over Iran's influence over events in Lebanon and advocated for a political agreement involving all parties, both domestic and international.

Mr. Bou Saab urged Hezbollah to understand that surrendering their weapons to the Lebanese government would open the door to reclaiming lands, freeing prisoners, and halting Israeli attacks. He asserted that the future of Lebanon lies in keeping the weapons solely with the Lebanese army. His comments come in the wake of President Joseph Aoun's decision to halt new talks with Israel for now, following a bombing of Ali Al Taher ridge in southern Lebanon by Israel.

The bombing, which utilized over 1,100 tonnes of explosives, targeted the area in retaliation for Hezbollah's missile attacks in support of Iran. President Aoun also expressed his apprehension regarding Iran's impact on Lebanon's affairs, stating that the country's future is contingent on regional developments. He called for a political agreement between all parties, both within and outside Lebanon.

The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel began on March 2, when Hezbollah launched missiles at Israel to protest what it deemed to be Israeli violations of a prior ceasefire. Israel's military response has resulted in the loss of over 4,000 lives and the destruction of numerous villages in southern Lebanon, where troops have been stationed.

Mr. Bou Saab asserted that a peaceful resolution is possible, but it ultimately hinges on ending the broader regional conflict and the developments related to the upcoming U.S. elections and Israel's own electoral process. He noted that efforts to enhance security are underway, but the country is currently in a state of uncertainty, with Lebanon at a "pause condition."