Hassan Nasrallah: 'Force is the duty of the state, not Hizbullah.'

Force is the duty of the state, not Hizbullah.

In today's blog article, we delve into an intriguing quote by Hassan Nasrallah: "Force is the duty of the state, not Hizbullah." This thought-provoking statement highlights the underlying principle that Nasrallah believes the use of force and the responsibility to maintain peace and security lies within the realm of the state, rather than his organization, Hizbullah. This straightforward interpretation emphasizes the idea that the role of armed factions should be limited to safeguarding the interests of the state rather than taking matters into their own hands.Nasrallah's quote carries significant importance in understanding the dynamics of power and its proper place within society. At its core, this statement highlights the need for a clear division of responsibilities between the state and non-state actors. Typically, the state embodies the legitimate authority to exercise force, as it holds a monopoly over violence. This notion is deeply rooted in the principles of governance, where the state represents the collective will of the people and upholds laws to maintain order and protect its citizens.By drawing attention to the division of duties, Nasrallah challenges prevailing narratives surrounding non-state actors' legitimacy to use force. Hizbullah, often viewed as a militant group, acknowledges that the use of force is primarily the responsibility of the state. This acknowledgement demonstrates a nuanced understanding of power dynamics and reinforces the importance of state institutions in upholding law and order.Introducing an unexpected philosophical concept, we can explore the contrasting views on the role of force and violence within society. The concept of "just war theory" comes to mind. Traditionally associated with the works of philosophers such as Thomas Aquinas and later revisited by Michael Walzer, just war theory seeks to provide a moral framework for evaluating the legitimacy of using force in certain circumstances.According to just war theory, force is justified when it meets specific criteria. These criteria include having a just cause, a proper authority, right intentions, proportionality, and a reasonable chance of success. Applying this concept to Nasrallah's quote, one can argue that Hizbullah's belief in the primacy of state force aligns with the principles of just war theory. By recognizing the state as the rightful authority, Hizbullah adheres to the idea that force should be exercised within a framework of moral and legal parameters.In contrast, various non-state actors throughout history have disregarded the principles of just war theory, assuming the role of both judge and enforcer. This alternative approach often leads to unpredictable outcomes, further complicating already nuanced conflicts. In light of this, Nasrallah's quote takes on even greater significance, as it underscores the importance of upholding established societal norms and respecting the authority of the state when employing force.In conclusion, Hassan Nasrallah's quote, "Force is the duty of the state, not Hizbullah," encapsulates a crucial perspective on the role of force within society. By recognizing the state's responsibility for maintaining peace and security, Nasrallah challenges prevailing notions surrounding non-state actors' legitimacy to use force. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding established moral and legal frameworks, such as the just war theory, to ensure the judicious and responsible use of force. Ultimately, by embracing the idea that force is the province of the state, Hizbullah reinforces its commitment to maintaining order, protecting citizens, and working within the bounds of legality.