Lebanese PM Nawaf Salam asserts state monopoly on arms

During a cabinet session in Baabda, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam emphasized several constitutional principles regarding national security. He stated that the monopoly on weapons must remain exclusively in the hands of the state, citing the Lebanese Constitution, the Taif Agreement, and UN Resolution 1701.

Salam identified the only authorized entities to carry weapons as the Lebanese Army, Internal Security Forces, General Security, State Security, Lebanese Customs, and municipal police. He called on Hezbollah to adhere to these established frameworks and noted that the state alone holds the authority to make decisions regarding war and peace.

The Prime Minister warned that the storage or transport of weapons by unauthorized parties constitutes a threat to public safety and a violation of the law, necessitating security follow-up and judicial prosecution. Additionally, he mentioned progress regarding electricity cooperation with Qatar.