Lebanon’s presidency renewed its warning to Hezbollah Saturday, holding the group responsible for any potential domestic or international consequences amid rising regional tensions following the strikes on Iran.
According to sources cited by Al Hadath, the Lebanese presidency reiterated its caution to Hezbollah and emphasized that the group would bear responsibility for any repercussions resulting from escalation.
The warning comes at a time when Lebanon faces mounting pressure to remain outside the widening confrontation between Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The Lebanese Foreign Ministry said in an official statement, “We strongly condemn the Iranian attacks that targeted the sovereignty and security of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Qatar, the State of Kuwait, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.”
Israel Warns Hezbollah
Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee said in a statement, “We are previewing the possibility of Hezbollah entering the fighting, and our message here is clear: ‘If you make this grave mistake, our response will be strong.’”
Security Channels Urge Restraint
A senior Lebanese security source reportedly said Hezbollah has been informed through official channels of the need to exercise restraint and avoid dragging the country into what were described as “uncalculated adventures.”
“The situation is fragile but under control for now,” the source said, adding that events could spiral rapidly “even if the party does not take the initiative to respond.”
The statement reflects growing concern within Lebanese state institutions that the country could be drawn into a broader conflict regardless of whether Hezbollah formally enters the confrontation.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam Responds
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on Saturday called on the Lebanese to place the country’s interests “above any other consideration” amid the escalating war involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Speaking at a press conference following an expanded meeting he chaired at the Grand Serail, Salam said discussions focused on assessing institutional readiness and ensuring the uninterrupted functioning of public services and facilities in light of the regional conflict.
“Prioritizing Lebanon’s interest will spare the country further repercussions,” he said, adding that the government is conducting all necessary diplomatic contacts to shield Lebanon from the fallout. He noted that the current regional tension is not unprecedented and that preventive measures have long been in place through the Higher Relief Commission and relevant ministries.
Salam sought to reassure the public, urging citizens not to panic or believe rumors. “Food supplies, medicines and fuel are available for no less than two months, so there is no cause for alarm,” he said.
He stressed that supply lines by land, sea and air remain open, with instructions issued to expedite the unloading and distribution of goods. While some airlines have canceled flights, the national carrier, Middle East Airlines, continues to operate, and Beirut airport remains open.
Warning against hoarding, rationing or price hikes, Salam said the government would act firmly against monopolistic practices. “I will not hesitate to take the necessary measures, and we will prevent any attempts at monopoly,” he said.
The prime minister also underscored ongoing diplomatic outreach, including contacts with Arab countries affected by the conflict. While acknowledging that embassies could potentially be targeted, he said the authorities have implemented all required security measures.
Salam concluded by urging the Lebanese to act with wisdom, patriotism and rationality to prevent the country from being dragged into the ongoing war.
President Joseph Aoun Responds
President Joseph Aoun also urged restraint, stressing that the country is entering a highly sensitive phase. “The current delicate phase requires everyone to fully commit to national responsibility and to prioritize Lebanon’s supreme national interest,” Aoun said in a statement.
He added that sparing Lebanon “from the disasters and horrors of external conflicts” and safeguarding its sovereignty, security and stability remain “an absolute priority.”
Aoun stressed the central role of the state and all its institutions as guarantors of security, stability, and the protection of all citizens and the country’s territory.
Qassem Speech Postponed
Separately, Hezbollah postponed a memorial ceremony in the Bekaa region at which Secretary-General Sheikh Naeem Qassem was scheduled to deliver a speech. The postponement was announced “in light of current developments,” according to local reports, following the regional escalation triggered by the attack on Iran.
While no official reason beyond the security context was provided, the delay underscores the sensitivity of the moment and the heightened volatility surrounding Lebanon’s position.
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