Lebanese political response to South Lebanon conflict

Lebanese MP Hassan Fadlallah has issued several criticisms regarding the government’s management of the conflict in South Lebanon and the subsequent recovery efforts. Initially, Fadlallah criticized the government for failing to provide a political solution since late 2024 and accused certain authorities of abandoning international protections such as Resolution 1701. He argued that some political factions are using the occupation to pressure the resistance to disarm, rather than seeking sovereignty and Israeli withdrawal. He also called for the redirection of economic resources toward reconstruction and supporting displaced persons. Subsequently, Fadlallah demanded that the Lebanese state establish a presence in South Lebanon before any discussions regarding weapons restrictions or decisions on war and peace occur. He asserted that if the state cannot protect its citizens, it lacks the right to prevent them from self-defense. Additionally, he alleged that delays in disbursing a World Bank loan for war damage recovery are intentional and suggested that Lebanese authorities should utilize Iran’s deterrence capabilities during regional negotiations. At a memorial event in the village of Douair, Fadlallah, a member of the Hezbollah Al-Wafa bloc, reiterated that the state must protect national sovereignty against aerial, maritime, and land violations. He maintained that the state must fulfill its duties of protection and care before discussing weapon restrictions. While noting that administrative and security institutions exist in the south, he emphasized that the decisive state decision to provide protection and development remains absent. He expressed readiness for dialogue on a national security strategy once an Israeli withdrawal has occurred. More recently, Fadlallah, representing the ‘Loyalty to the Resistance’ bloc, reaffirmed Hezbollah’s commitment to a rehousing program for displaced persons. He stated the initiative fulfills commitments made by the late Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and Sayyed Hashem Safieddine, noting the program will proceed despite potential challenges.