Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, in Baabda Presidential Palace. (Credit: AFP)
BEIRUT — Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam affirmed there will be “no retreat from the project of ensuring that all weapons are exclusively under the authority of the Lebanese state, which is responsible for defending all its citizens,” in an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat published Friday.
He stressed that “the state alone must have the final say in matters of war and peace, and it alone is responsible for defending all its citizens, without exception, using all means permitted by law and international norms.”
Salam added that the entire state apparatus is working to ensure the full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and to prevent all forms of aggression.
'Groundwork for a promising new beginning'
Salam said Lebanon has “succeeded in laying the groundwork for a promising new beginning, despite the many challenges facing the project of rebuilding trust and pursuing reform.”
He noted that Hezbollah MPs agreed to the ministerial statement on which the government won a vote of confidence. The statement explicitly stipulates that arms must be exclusively in the hands of the state, and that the state must assert its authority across all its territory in accordance with the Taif Agreement.
Salam cited recent efforts by the Lebanese Army — including deployment to the South, dismantling of military structures, control of the Syrian border, anti-smuggling operations and tightening of airport security — as “clear evidence of this commitment.”
'Government’s mission is to restore trust'
Salam stressed the importance of restoring the trust of Lebanon’s Arab partners and international allies in the establishment of a fully functioning state. Speaking ahead of his departure to Baghdad, where he will lead Lebanon’s delegation to the Arab League Summit, Salam said he carries a “message of promise and hope” to Arab leaders.
Salam also discussed steps being taken to welcome all visitors — particularly Arabs — by enhancing airport security and services and ensuring the safety of citizens and guests.
On May 1, the United Arab Emirates officially lifted its four-year travel ban on Lebanon. The move followed Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s recent visit to Abu Dhabi, where he met with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed.
'Lebanon has returned to the Arab fold'
Regarding Lebanon’s position at the Arab Summit, Salam said, “We are going with a clear message: Lebanon has returned to the Arab fold and is keen to adhere to Arab legitimacy, as well as international legitimacy.”
Salam also praised the “majestic scene” in Saudi Arabia during U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit, calling it “a sign of a major regional transformation.” He commended the kingdom for establishing itself as a key player in global affairs and credited its role in the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria — “a major turning point in the region.”
On Tuesday, ahead of a meeting with his Syrian counterpart, Trump announced that U.S. sanctions on Syria would be lifted.
Salam concluded by thanking Iraq for its efforts in preparing for the Arab League Summit, and thanked the country for its continued assistance to Lebanon, particularly in the energy sector.