Justice Minister Adel Nassar on Friday criticized remarks by Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem regarding the group’s weapons, saying the comments undermine claims that Hezbollah’s arms are meant to defend Lebanon.

“The threat by some to destroy Lebanon in defense of their weapons puts an end to the claim that these arms are meant to defend Lebanon," Nassar wrote on X.

Qassem had warned of civil war in a recent speech concerning the possession of weapons by the group. 

In a separate statement via Al Arabiya, Nassar said Qassem’s statements are “completely unacceptable,” framing them as a challenge to Lebanon’s stability and sovereignty.

“The faction backed by the Iranian government is threatening the Lebanese government and undermining the foundations of the Lebanese State,” he stated.

Nassar also highlighted a perceived contradiction in Qassem’s position, noting that the Hezbollah official opposes the government while being a part of it.

“Hezbollah has granted its vote of confidence to the government twice and approved its ministerial statement,” he said.