May 7 Spectre: Government and Army Called to Act

At each decision to reaffirm the sovereignty of the state, the threat of internal turmoil re-emerges. Hezbollah raises the specter of civil war, while authorities too often remain mere spectators. The memory of the fateful May 7, 2008 haunts the minds: the fear is real of seeing the army stand aside, citing a refusal to “engage in internal conflict,” thus leaving room for armed initiatives against other components of Lebanese society.

The role of the state, embodied by the government and the army, cannot afford ambiguity. Faced with any movement of armed groups targeting citizens, a clear position is necessary. If they intend to intervene, they must reassure the population and deploy visible measures in the field. If they choose not to act, they should at least inform the Lebanese so that they can organize their own protection.

This issue allows no compromises, political calculations, or personal accommodations. It concerns the core responsibility of institutions: to protect citizens, their lives, and their property, against factions that have sown chaos and destruction for far too long.

So far, the government and security agencies seem hardly eager to avert the danger. If the will truly existed, those who make death threats, assassination threats, or threats of forceful overthrow would have already been brought to justice.

The credibility of the executive and military officials is now at stake. They accepted their positions to defend the Lebanese and guarantee their rights. If they abandon this mission, it is their duty to step back and be held accountable.