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Jumblat: Lebanon's Neutrality Contradicts Taef Accord, Eliminates Resistance's Accomplishments

Progressive Socialist Party leader MP Walid Jumblat stated on Monday that Lebanon must once again adhere to the policy of disassociation from regional conflicts, most notably the one in Syria.

He added however that Lebanon must not adopt a neutral position from regional crises “as that would eliminate all of the accomplishments and major sacrifices against western agendas.”

The theory of neutrality also contradicts the Taef Accord that spoke of Lebanon's Arab and political identities, he said in his weekly editorial in the PSP-affiliated al-Anbaa website.

“Neutrality will eliminate the Lebanese and Palestinian resistance of Israel over the decades,” continued the MP.

Jumblat made his remarks in reference to the ongoing discussions to devise a policy statement for the new government.

Obstacles are expected to arise over Hizbullah's insistence to include the “army-people-resistance” equation in the statement and the March 14 camp's rejection of it.

On the ministerial statement discussions, the PSP chief said: “A number of developments make it necessary to come up with alternative wordings that will take us away from the discussions over the 'army-people-resistance' equation.”

This requires the resumption of the national dialogue to address a national defense strategy for Lebanon, he explained.

The ministerial statement “discussions must not eliminate Lebanon's right to resist Israel or any Israeli assault.”

“Is it necessary for us to remind those going against the political consensus of the great national and Arab heritage in resisting Israel over the years?” wondered Jumblat.


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