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Qassem: You Cannot Compare Resistance's Weapons with Street Arms

Hizbullah deputy Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem reiterated his calls for a national unity cabinet, stating also that the resistance's weapons cannot be compared to arms used on the streets.

"The arms of the resistance are in the interest of Lebanon and this has been proven on ground,” Qassem said during an Iftar banquet on Saturday.

He elaborated: “These weapons prevent Israel from launching any attack against Lebanon because we have a resistance that is ready to defend the country,”

"Weapons are a tool that can be used for good or for evil purposes. It could serve the country's interests or work against them. What matters is how weapons are used and what are the goals behind the possession of arms.”

Qassem continued: “For those saying that weapons used on the streets aim at confronting the resistance's weaponry we tell them they are mistaken.”

"The owners of street weapons are known, same as those financing the possession of these arms, training people, and easing their movements between Lebanon and neighboring countries.”

"You will not succeed in defeating the resistance's weaponry by making this comparison,” Qassem stated. “The resistance's arms are far more noble and important and will not be present on the streets.”

In a ceremony marking the 68th anniversary of the army’s founding on Thursday, President Michel Suleiman criticized Hizbullah without naming it, saying it was time for the Lebanese state and the army to be the sole decision-makers on the use of the nation's capabilities

Regarding the new cabinet, the Hizbullah official said the party is keen on forming a council of ministers to “lift the country and manage crises.”

"We urge the formation of a national unity cabinet where no one can disclaim the responsibility of its failure,” Qassem expressed.

"All factions agreed on naming premier-designate Tammam Salam to form a national unity cabinet. And looking for other options is a waste of time and harms Lebanon as no one in the country is apolitical.”

Addressing the party's political foes, Qassem said common grounds can be reached between various parties inside the council of ministers.

"We have lots of things in common, and all previous experiences failed because there were no united effort and because of individuality in the cabinet,” he commented.

"When we agree, we can reach a solution.”


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