Sheikh Al-Khatib to Al-Manar: Resistance Is Lebanon's Shield; National Defense Strategy No Longer Optional

Deputy Head of Lebanon's Higher Islamic Shiite Council, Sheikh Ali Al-Khatib, affirmed that the resistance has adhered to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, a fact confirmed by the Lebanese Cabinet. His Eminence warned that the continuation of Israeli aggressions undermines stability in Lebanon, asking, 'Will the Lebanese people accept this reality?'
In an interview with Al-Manar TV on Thursday evening, Sheikh Al-Khatib stated, 'As long as the Lebanese state fails to carry out its duties in liberating occupied land and deterring aggression, the resistance's arms remain justified.'
He stressed that the resistance took up arms solely to deter Israeli aggression, noting that 'the decision regarding resistance weapons ultimately belongs to the people.'
Sheikh Al-Khatib stressed that 'as long as sectarian mindsets prevail, building a real state and approaching matters with realism will remain out of reach.' He added that all forces attempting to pressure the Lebanese state 'are not interested in Lebanon's stability.'
His Eminence held the state accountable for its responsibilities, particularly in reconstruction efforts, stating, 'Those calling for the disarmament of the resistance are not seeking a strong state. They are prepared to ignite civil war but unwilling to confront the real enemy.'
Underscoring the importance of a comprehensive defense strategy, Sheikh Al-Khatib said such a strategy must be rooted in Lebanon's national interest and built through dialogue with the resistance. He reaffirmed that the resistance defends all of Lebanon and its people, while others have borne arms to serve foreign agendas.
Additionally, Sheikh Al-Khatib emphasized that 'if the Shiite community is defeated, Lebanon as a whole is defeated,' asserting that the community stands in defense of all Lebanese. He pointed to the recent massive funerals of Hezbollah Secretaries General Sayyed Hasan Nasrallah and Sayyed Hashem Safieddine as a powerful response to narratives claiming the Shiite community is weakened.

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