BEIRUT, Lebanon, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Lebanese political leaders continued their debate over Hezbollah's right to maintain an armed resistance to deter an Israeli threat.
Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri wrangled over drafting a national policy guideline following months of deliberations over forming his new government.
Hezbollah secured two Cabinet positions in the Hariri government and later was awarded the right by Lebanese lawmakers to maintain an armed resistance so long as the threat from Israel persists.
The matter remains contentious, with some Lebanese leaders suggesting Hezbollah fighters should integrate into the national military.
Samir Geagea, the leader of the Lebanese Forces political party and key figure in the ruling March 14 coalition, wondered if the threat from Israel would subside should Hezbollah lay down its weapons, Lebanon's Daily Star newspaper reports.
"Would Lebanon be subject to an Israeli attack if Hezbollah did not possess weapons?" he asked.
U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which helped broker a cease-fire to a 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel, calls on Hezbollah to lay down its weapons while reminding Israel of its obligation to respect Lebanese sovereignty.
Lebanese anti-aircraft gunners fired on four Israeli jets flying over southern Lebanon on Tuesday.
Both sides complain of frequent violations of the cease-fire agreement.
