PSP Rejects Use of Arms Locally, Jumblat Warns Against Vacuum

The Progressive Socialist Party on Sunday rejected the use of weapons locally and called for a defense strategy that protects Lebanon from Israeli attacks.

During its yearly general assembly meeting, the PSP said the use of weapons locally “would destroy all national achievements.” However, the party rejected to keep the country weak amid continued Israeli threats.

It believed that “achieving a national defense strategy that guarantees the protection of Lebanon against Israeli attacks and violations” and resorting to dialogue were the best solutions.

The PSP called for “rational dialogue” on Hizbullah’s arms after the formation of the new government.

Addressing the party members, PSP chief Walid Jumblat also called for dialogue.

Jumblat warned in remarks published Sunday against a political vacuum.

In remarks to An Nahar daily, Jumblat said: “I back the quick formation of the government and reject details over shares because the presence of the cabinet guarantees stability and protects institutions.”

While warning against the dangers of vacuum, he said there is “no magical solution” to the country’s problems unless politicians resort to “dialogue.”

Asked about the obstacles facing the cabinet formation process, the Druze leader said: “There are local and personal obstacles.”

He stressed that the formation of the government was an “internal issue” when An Nahar asked him if he discussed the matter with Syrian President Bashar Assad in his latest visit to Damascus.

Jumblat said the Taef agreement should be implemented for drawing a line between the two countries that says the security of Syria and Lebanon are interlinked.