Lebanese minister affirms strong ties with Kuwait

13/02/2026

KUWAIT CITY, Feb 12: Lebanese Information Minister Paul Morcos pointed out that Kuwait was not the second home of the Lebanese, because it is their own country. In a press conference held at the Lebanese Embassy on Thursday, Morcos asserted that the Lebanese community in Kuwait enjoys a sense of security, integration and belongingness due to the strong fraternal ties between the Lebanese and Kuwaiti nations. He recalled the supportive stances of Kuwait towards Lebanon during the war years, its generous contributions, and its role in the Arab efforts that helped end the war and restore stability. On the security front, he stressed the need to strengthen State authority in the South, where the Lebanese Army has operational control now. He added that efforts are underway to bolster the Army’s deployment in the northern part of Litani River.

He also highlighted efforts to secure the northern and eastern borders, the fight against drug manufacturing and trafficking, the killing of some major drug dealers during security operations conducted by the Lebanese Army, and thwarting attempts to smuggle to neighboring Arab countries. He underscored the commitment of Lebanon to maintain its security and that of its Arab neighbors. Asked about the decision of Kuwait to include eight Lebanese hospitals on its terrorism list, he stated that the Ministry of Information does not issue official statements on its own, as it acts based on data or findings issued by the concerned authorities in Lebanon.

He clarified that, as of the time of his statement, no official statement has been issued by the concerned authorities in this regard, emphasizing that as soon as an official position is released, he will not hesitate to share it to the public, as each ministry has its specific role, and the Ministry of Information handles the clarification process upon completion of official data. On Hezbollah, Morcos stated that the government, in its ministerial statement and as per the oath of office, adheres to the constitutional frameworks, the National Reconciliation Document (Taif Agreement), the relevant international resolutions, particularly Resolution 1701, and the arrangements aimed at ending hostilities. He asserted that the objective is clear -- to extend State authority over all Lebanese territories and to control the use of force.

He revealed that the government has initiated gradual practical steps, which include assigning the Lebanese Army to implement certain phases. He said the first phase, southern part of Litani River, has been completed, while a decision regarding the second phase is pending, based on the assessment of the Army Commander of the needs and capabilities. He asserted that the government is employing wisdom, expertise and clarity in establishing this path despite the ongoing Israeli aggression, continuous occupation of certain areas, and absence of positive indicators to counter it. He added that the overall direction is to strengthen State authority and achieve stability.

By Fares Ghaleb Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff