Speaking at the Politburo in Beirut, Hezbollah Political Bureau member Ghalib Abu Zainab dismissed renewed calls for the group to disarm. He warned that “no one will be allowed to touch the resistance’s weapons,” describing them as essential to Lebanon’s defense and national dignity.

“Disarmament would weaken Lebanon’s security”

Abu Zainab maintained that as long as Israel continues to occupy Lebanese territories, violate airspace, and attack civilians, laying down arms would leave the country exposed. He claimed that the Lebanese army lacks sufficient equipment and acts more like a “police force” in the south, arguing that Hezbollah’s resistance forces are necessary to maintain deterrence.

“Priority is Israel’s withdrawal”

The Hezbollah official emphasized that the group’s disarmament could only be discussed after Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory. He called for the creation of a national defense strategy before any integration of Hezbollah’s forces into the state structure, citing President Joseph Aoun’s previous appeals in this regard. “Integrating the resistance into the national defense can only be discussed once Israel withdraws and a unified defense plan is established,” he said.

“U.S. hindering Lebanon’s reconstruction”

Abu Zainab accused the United States of blocking foreign assistance to Lebanon in line with Israeli interests. He said this obstruction directly affects the country’s reconstruction and reflects how international aid has become subject to political manipulation.

“We do not seek war, but we are ready”

Hezbollah, Abu Zainab said, is not seeking a new war but is fully prepared to respond if attacked. He revealed that following the 2023 clashes, the group restructured its ranks and trained thousands of young recruits for defense operations. He also underlined that Hezbollah has no intention of clashing with the Lebanese army, emphasizing that “most political actors in Lebanon stand for peace.”

“The red line: resistance weapons”

“No one will be allowed to touch the weapons of the resistance — this is our red line,” Abu Zainab warned, arguing that the issue goes beyond Lebanon and concerns the security of the Arab and Islamic world.
He insisted that Hezbollah’s armed presence remains Lebanon’s key deterrent power, and any attempt to neutralize it would leave the country defenseless against external threats.