“Akhbar al-Yawm” agency

Hezbollah: From Resistance and Obstruction to Democratic Opposition

Souaid: It will end with an attempt to secure internal guarantees leading to participation

Unlike its previous actions, Hezbollah has adopted a democratic opposition approach to the non-binding parliamentary consultations conducted by Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam. It's worth mentioning that it has often resorted to violent protests, from the black shirts to the events of May 7, 2008, as well as road blockades and closures…

However, it is essential to wait for the outcomes of these consultations to determine how Hezbollah will approach the next phase. A well-informed source noted that currently it is not appropriate to lean toward negative interpretations. Therefore, any conjecture, even if based on facts, should not override the country's best interests.

Commenting on Hezbollah's recent performance, former MP Fares Souaid, in an interview with "Akhbar Al-Yawm" agency, stated that for a long time, Hezbollah portrayed itself as the sole guarantor, particularly to its Shiite and partisan audience, presenting itself as an alternative to the state. However, it has become evident that due to the war, this guarantee has collapsed as it did not manifest in health, security, or politics. Consequently, it is natural for Hezbollah to reconsider its position and seek the state’s guarantees, which represents all Lebanese, including the Shiite community and Hezbollah's supporters.

Souaid observed that the collapse of this guarantee would drive Hezbollah, along with the Amal Movement and their affiliates, to adopt the state's assurances as an alternative for party-based guarantees. He highlighted a shift in the nature of opposition. Previously, when Hezbollah opposed, it resorted to violence. Today, opposition has taken a more democratic form, such as boycotting parliamentary sessions, non-binding consultations, or issuing statements and positions. The party no longer has the capacity to translate its opposition into actions like the events of May 7, 2008.

Souaid concluded by expressing his belief that all this rhetoric and opposition would eventually aim to extract internal guarantees, particularly from the government, ultimately leading to Hezbollah's participation in it.