Qassem Says Those Boasting about Aoun Election Have Bowed to Hizbullah Will

Hizbullah deputy chief Sheikh Naim Qassem on Sunday noted that “the entire world has acknowledged Hizbullah’s role” in the election of Michel Aoun as Lebanon’s president.

“When the entire world acknowledges Hizbullah’s role in electing a president, claims of heroism and taking credit by some parties become of no value,” Qassem said, ridiculing what he called “the illusions of victory.”

“Those trying to flex their muscles… and claiming that they have made an achievement have actually jumped on Hizbullah’s bandwagon,” Qassem added.

Aoun was elected president last month after a key endorsement from al-Mustaqbal Movement leader Saad Hariri, who was later appointed as prime minister-designate.

Crucial support from both Hizbullah and the Lebanese Forces also contributed to boosting Aoun’s presidential chances.

Turning to the issue of the stalled cabinet formation process, Qassem said “the obstacles are not significant.”

“With all due honesty, they need some flexibility and the result will be positive for everyone. There is no need to delay the cabinet line-up and we can cooperate to form the cabinet as soon as possible,” Qassem added.