Al-Hajjar stated that the field conditions on the Lebanese-Syrian borders are witnessing a noticeable improvement compared to the previous period, pointing to the increasing cooperation and coordination between the Lebanese and Syrian sides with the aim of facing security challenges and organizing the movement of crossings across the borders.
He added: “Lebanon is committed to the Arab Peace Initiative, and we seek to spare the country war with Israel. Lebanon is a homeland for all, even if the Lebanese view it in different ways.”
Al-Hajjar stressed the need for Israel to abide by its commitments to withdraw from Lebanese territories and stop its continuous attacks, noting that the Lebanese state adheres to international legitimacy resolutions and continues its contacts with the United Nations to ensure compliance with those resolutions.
Regarding the economic situation, the Minister of Interior stated that the economic challenges facing Lebanon are significant, and that the government is working in cooperation with the international community on reconstruction efforts, noting that government estimates for reconstruction costs amount to approximately $12 billion.
Al-Hajjar also stressed the need for the Lebanese army to be supported at the human and technical levels, given the increasing security responsibilities placed on it in various Lebanese regions, stressing the essential role played by the military institution in maintaining security and implementing state decisions.
In conclusion, Al-Hajjar affirmed that the state’s decision to impose its authority over all Lebanese territories is an irreversible strategic decision, saying: “The army is the only party authorized to contain weapons in northern Litani, and weapons may not be transferred outside the framework of the state.”
