'Shared goal, different approach': Geagea says Aoun fears of civil war 'excessive'

Lebanese Forces Leader Samir Geagea has again criticized President Joseph Aoun for his leniency toward Hezbollah as he urged for restoring Lebanon's sovereignty and the state's decision-making capacity to address challenges in the war and crisis hit country.

In a statement Thursday, Geagea said he shares the same goal of building a state with Aoun but they have a different approach toward Hezbollah's disarmament.

"The President's fear of a potential civil war is excessive," Geagea said, arguing that the state's efforts to apply laws, the constitution, and international agreements would not lead to civil war.

The Christian leader said "there is no state without authority", stressing that Hezbollah's weapons are undermining any genuine opportunity for Lebanon to liberate its occupied territories and rebuild its ties with Arab and international countries.

"All countries are clearly stating that as long as the decisions are in the hands of (Hezbollah leader) Sheikh Naim (Qassem), no one will offer assistance to Lebanon," he said.