In a recent Twitter Spaces discussion, Lebanese MP Sammy Gemayel highlighted the significant influence Hezbollah has on Lebanon's decisions, pointing out that the group's unilateral actions are compromising Lebanon's sovereignty. Gemayel urges for Lebanese Army control over the country's defense and borders. The conversation revealed a split in opinions: some participants disagreed with Gemayel, emphasizing Hezbollah's defense against Israel and its support within Lebanon. Despite these differences, the risk of a potential conflict between Hezbollah and Israel was acknowledged, with concerns about agreements possibly undermining Lebanon's sovereignty.# Topic: Twitter Spaces Discussion with Lebanese MP Sammy Gemayel

Lebanese MP Sammy Gemayel

[Sammy Gemayel, the leader of the Kataeb Party in Lebanon, expressed his concerns regarding Hezbollah's influence over Lebanon. He mentioned that Lebanon's sovereignty is undermined due to Hezbollah's armed militia that makes unilateral decisions without considering the official Lebanese state. Gemayel believes that the Lebanese Army should be the sole protector of Lebanon's borders and sovereignty. He also addressed the issue of assassinations in Lebanon, referring to the International Court of Justice's accusations against Hezbollah for assassinating former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. Gemayel stated there's a 50% chance of a full-scale war between Hezbollah and Israel within the next 12 months and warned of potential agreements that may compromise Lebanon's sovereignty at the expense of Hezbollah's interests.]

Contributors

[There were contributors who disagreed with Sammy Gemayel’s positions, citing that Hezbollah's existence and actions are a response to historical Israeli aggressions and that Hezbollah's role is rooted in its defense of Lebanon. They also pointed out that Hezbollah enjoys support within its community and argued that the Lebanese Army, without adequate capabilities or international support, cannot solely defend Lebanon's borders. Moreover, the discussion covered the legitimacy and acceptance of Hezbollah within Lebanon, the Lebanese government's stance on Hezbollah, and the complexity of Lebanese politics with regard to international relations, especially concerning UN resolutions and interventions.]

Summary of Discussion

[The Twitter Spaces session featured a heated debate surrounding Hezbollah's role in Lebanon, its influence on Lebanese sovereignty, and the potential for future conflict with Israel. MP Gemayel advocated for the Lebanese Army's primacy in national defense, while other voices highlighted Hezbollah's importance in protecting Lebanon from Israel. Concerns about international support for Lebanon's military capabilities and the possibility of agreements with Israel that may impinge on Lebanese sovereignty were also discussed. The conversation underscored the deep divisions within Lebanese politics and society regarding Hezbollah and its role in the country's future.]