Prime Minister Nawaf Salam affirmed that the slogan “People, Army, Resistance” is now obsolete, adding that “Hezbollah’s weapons chapter was closed” with the government’s ministerial statement.
In an interview with al-Arabiya on Friday, Salam stressed that the policy statement clearly entrusts decisions of war and peace exclusively to the state. “The state alone is responsible for the security of its land, sea and air borders,” he emphasized, adding that the statement explicitly calls for the extension of state authority over all Lebanese territory, with its own forces acting as the sole legitimate armed power.
Referring to the recent incident at Beirut airport, Salam revealed that his government acted decisively to reopen the airport road after an Iranian plane was denied landing.
On the stalled probe into the August 4 Beirut port explosion, Salam disclosed that the investigation is “back on track.”
Regarding the government's composition, he made clear that there is no direct party representation, asserting that it maintains “equal distance from all factions.”
“All ministers are working in the same direction but at different speeds,” he noted, underscoring the government’s collective but gradual push for reforms.
Salam also lamented Lebanon’s missed opportunities, foremost being the failure to fully implement the Taif Accord.
On security, he highlighted that international organizations have confirmed the Lebanese Army’s effective role in maintaining stability in the South. He also announced the launch of a reconstruction initiative in collaboration with donor countries.
Addressing Lebanon’s economic challenges, Salam warned that “investments will not come to Lebanon as long as there are weapons outside the authority of the state.”
Undeterred by mounting pressure, he declared, “The more I am pressured, the more determined I become to stick to my goals.”
Finally, Salam emphasized Lebanon’s commitment to restoring regional ties, stating, “we seek to regain the trust of Arab countries.”
“Restricting weapons to the state won’t happen overnight,” Salam concluded, calling for patience as his government works toward consolidating state authority.
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