Use of weapons domestically altered political environment
MP Boutros Harb said that the use of weapons between domestic parties altered many things at different levels. He said that recent steps toward reconciliation were positive indicators, however, he said there remained a fear that internal and external parties, who did not have interest in Lebanese reconciliation and stability, would exploit the situation.
In an interview with the Voice of Lebanon radio station on Saturday, Harb said that if things were not handled properly the situation might “explode,” especially given that the regional security situation would have repercussions on Lebanon. “The media is a very dangerous weapon, and it must be used in a way that advances society,” he said.
Harb added that if the current national dialogue was a continuation of the Doha Agreement, which ended weeks of deadly fighting in May, then the national defense strategy should be the only article discussed during the dialogue. Harb said that the army could not become involved in politicians’ disputes.
“It is wrong for the Lebanese to consider themselves to be international players, and it is dangerous for them to become involved in international disagreements,” he said.
Harb said the Lebanese battle was one of survival, and he added that since decisions were influenced by external forces, accordingly the solution would be found outside of Lebanon.