Sami Gemayel, leader of the Kataeb Party, met with French Ambassador to Lebanon Patrick Durell on Thursday, September 10, 2026, to discuss Lebanese stability and sovereignty. The high-level diplomatic encounter took place at the Kataeb Party headquarters in Saifi, showing the significance of the discussions. During their meeting, Gemayel stressed "the importance of the upcoming conference to be held in the French capital, Paris, to support the Lebanese army," emphasizing the need for continued international support to enhance the military's capabilities. He stated this role is fundamental "in preserving stability and sovereignty in Lebanon." Regarding armaments, Gemayel affirmed the army's role in confining weapons to the Lebanese state, calling for efforts to disarm Hezbollah and implement related governmental resolutions. This, he noted, would strengthen state authority and consolidate sovereignty across all Lebanese territories. The meeting served as a platform for the Kataeb leader to reiterate his party's vision for a strong, unified state.
Focus on Army Support
Sami Gemayel, leader of the Kataeb Party, showed the significance of the upcoming conference scheduled to take place in Paris, which is aimed at bolstering the Lebanese army. This event, he noted, represents a key opportunity for the international community to reaffirm its commitment to Lebanon's security institutions. Gemayel stressed the necessity of sustained international support for the military institution, noting its key role in strengthening the army's capabilities. He elaborated that such support is not merely financial but also includes training, equipment, and strategic cooperation, all vital for the army's effectiveness. He affirmed the army's responsibility in consolidating all weapons within the purview of the Lebanese state, a principle he considers foundational for national stability. The Kataeb leader emphasized that a well-equipped and internationally supported army is the cornerstone of a sovereign nation.
Call for Hezbollah Disarmament
Sami Gemayel called for efforts to disarm Hezbollah and implement relevant government decisions. The Kataeb leader emphasized that the Lebanese army's role involves confining all weapons to the Lebanese state. He asserted that such measures are essential for strengthening state authority and consolidating sovereignty across all Lebanese territories. Gemayel's remarks during his meeting with French Ambassador to Lebanon Patrick Durell showed his party's long-standing position regarding the need to integrate all armed factions into the state's command structure. He reiterated the importance of a unified security apparatus under national control to ensure stability and prevent any parallel power structures from undermining the state. This stance aligns with calls for the full implementation of UN resolutions concerning the disarmament of non-state actors in Lebanon. The Kataeb Party views the disarmament of non-state groups as a critical step towards true national independence and stability.
Broader Political Context
The meeting between Kataeb Party leader Sami Gemayel and French Ambassador to Lebanon Patrick Durell was held at the Kataeb Party headquarters in Saifi. This location served as the venue for discussions regarding Lebanese stability, sovereignty, and the role of the national army. The encounter noted ongoing diplomatic efforts to address Lebanon's internal challenges and secure international backing for its state institutions. Ambassador Durell's visit signals France's continued engagement with Lebanese political leaders on key issues affecting the country's future. The broader political environment in Lebanon continues to be marked by calls for strengthening state authority and addressing the issue of non-state armed groups. Such high-level diplomatic engagements show the persistent international focus on Lebanon's security and political future amidst regional complexities. The discussions in Saifi reflect the Kataeb Party's consistent advocacy for a unified state control over all armaments, which they believe is critical for the nation's long-term peace and prosperity. These diplomatic exchanges are vital in shaping international understanding and support for Lebanon's sovereignty.
