Beirut:Industry Minister Joe Issa El Khoury declared that Hezbollah's possession of weapons outside state control poses a significant challenge to Lebanon. He emphasized the need for state sovereignty to ensure security and attract investments.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, Issa El Khoury noted that Hezbollah is experiencing political and military challenges and accused the group of prioritizing Iran's interests over Lebanon's. He insisted that only the Lebanese state should represent the country's interests and that diplomacy is the sole path to restoring sovereignty and stability.

The minister highlighted the necessity for investors to have confidence that Lebanon will not face recurring threats of war. He mentioned that Lebanese expatriates frequently inquire about when the Lebanese Army will have exclusive control over weapons.

Issa El Khoury stated the government's intent to persuade Hezbollah to surrender its weapons to the state, aiming to avoid conflict between the group and the Army. He called for international support to enhance the military's capabilities.

Additionally, he criticized Hezbollah's resistance to negotiations with Israel, attributing it to the group's desire for a role in such discussions. He asserted that the current government and presidency have reinstated decision-making power to state institutions.

Regarding Iran, Issa El Khoury claimed that Tehran is interested in maintaining Hezbollah's military strength for its regional goals, while Lebanon aims to eliminate weapons outside official control.

He also mentioned Prime Minister Nawaf Salam's diplomatic engagements at the UN General Assembly, which focused on Lebanon's stance on Hezbollah's weapons, Israeli-held territories, economic reforms, and investment requirements.

Issa El Khoury explained that Lebanon's diplomatic efforts are geared towards securing international backing for state sovereignty, reform, and investment initiatives.