Jamaa Islamiya’s armed display sparks condemnation

Gunmen in northern Lebanon openly displayed light and medium weapons during the funeral procession for two militants from Jamaa Islamiya, who were killed in an Israeli drone strike. The event, which took place in the West Bekaa town of Maydoun on Friday, escalated to shooting in the air and drew widespread criticism from Lebanese political figures.

The funeral began in Tripoli’s al-Nour Square, proceeding through several towns including Minieh, al-Abdeh, and al-Mhammara, and concluded in the militants’ hometown of Bebnin in the Akkar district. The gunfire during the procession resulted in three bystanders, including a child, being injured by stray bullets.

MP Waddah al-Sadek criticized the armed display, arguing that such actions ultimately benefit Israel and harm Lebanon, especially since the gunfire occurred far from the conflict zones, injuring Lebanese citizens and undermining state stability.

The Tajaddod bloc, represented by MPs Michel Mouawad, Ashraf Rifi, Fouad Makhzoumi, and Adib Abdel Massih, condemned the display of arms and chaos, emphasizing that national defense should exclusively be the responsibility of state forces.

MP Mark Daou also voiced concerns that such displays challenge the state’s authority and sovereignty.

In response to the backlash, Jamaa Islamiya expressed regret over the armed incidents and the ensuing public panic during the coffin transfer. The group reaffirmed its commitment to Lebanon’s stability and security, stating that any gunfire not directed at the Israeli enemy is misplaced and that creating fear among the Lebanese populace is unacceptable.

The Israeli military identified one of the deceased militants as Musab Khalaf, alleging his involvement in attacks against Israeli troops in the contested Shebaa Farms area, which was captured by Israel in 1967 but is claimed by Lebanon. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has intensified hostilities along the Lebanon-Israel border, with Hezbollah and Israeli forces frequently exchanging fire, and Hezbollah declaring its solidarity with Hamas.