Lebanese political discourse on border security

Walid Jumblatt, former leader of the Progressive Socialist Party, has voiced strong criticism regarding recent negotiations and the situation in Southern Lebanon. He described the current state of the south as a “systematic destruction of homes, heritage, and cemeteries” and argued that Lebanon entered negotiations from a position of weakness.

Jumblatt warned against the risks of normalization with Israel, noting that such a move could undermine the Lebanese Army’s doctrine, which classifies Israel as an enemy. He emphasized the necessity of internal Lebanese dialogue, including with Hezbollah, and called for improved relations with Syria to navigate a “highly dangerous phase” in the region.

In subsequent developments, Jumblatt’s position has been characterized by an advocacy for returning to the 1949 Armistice Agreement and UN Resolution 1701. This approach seeks to establish a security and international framework that separates border management from political recognition or normalization. By focusing on these frameworks, Jumblatt aims to strengthen state authority and ensure that military and security decision-making on the borders is restricted to legitimate institutions, specifically the Lebanese Army.