Beirut, June 13 (SANA) Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raji said Lebanon can independently settle the issue of Hezbollah’s weapons, stressing that this requires firm decisions backed by the international community.
The Lebanese National News Agency quoted Raji as saying in an interview with a French newspaper that Hezbollah is strategically and militarily weakened, yet still controls much of the “deep state” and maintains its weapons and influence.
Raji emphasized that Lebanon rejects linking its internal file to any U.S.–Iran agreement, and will not allow others to negotiate or sign deals on its behalf.
He expressed hope that U.S. mediation will lead to a permanent ceasefire, a full Israeli withdrawal, and the dismantling of Hezbollah’s militia, describing current efforts as “somewhat positive.”
Raji criticized international leniency toward Iran, citing the actions of its proxies, including hostage‑taking, assassinations, and attacks on embassies and peacekeepers.
He said distinguishing between Hezbollah’s political and military wings is unrealistic, calling the group a single entity serving Iran’s destabilizing agenda.
Raji urged France to support the Lebanese Army and help establish an alternative to UNIFIL before its mandate expires.
He reiterated that direct Lebanon–Israel negotiations are the only path to ending the war, noting that despite the April 17 ceasefire, Israeli shelling and evacuation warnings continue daily.
R A H/MZ
