Meaning: The quote "Those who liberated the South from Israel must show allegiance to Lebanon" by Walid Jumblatt, a prominent Lebanese politician, reflects the complex and intricate dynamics of the Lebanese-Israeli conflict and the subsequent liberation of the South of Lebanon. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical context and the political landscape of the region.

Lebanon's relationship with Israel has been fraught with tension and conflict for decades. The southern region of Lebanon, in particular, has been a focal point of this hostility. In 1978, Israel launched Operation Litani, a military incursion into southern Lebanon aimed at pushing back Palestinian militants operating in the area. This marked the beginning of a prolonged period of Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon, which had significant repercussions for the local population and the broader Lebanese society.

The protracted Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon led to the emergence of resistance movements, most notably Hezbollah, which sought to expel Israeli forces from Lebanese territory. This resistance culminated in the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000, a momentous event that was celebrated as a victory by many Lebanese and marked a significant turning point in the history of the region.

Walid Jumblatt, a prominent Druze politician and the leader of the Progressive Socialist Party in Lebanon, has been an influential figure in Lebanese politics and has played a pivotal role in shaping the country's post-civil war era. His statement underscores the idea that those who contributed to the liberation of the South from Israeli occupation should demonstrate their loyalty and allegiance to Lebanon, the nation to which they owe their newfound freedom.

Jumblatt's assertion carries profound implications for the political and social fabric of Lebanon. It emphasizes the importance of national unity and solidarity in the aftermath of a long and arduous struggle for liberation. The call for allegiance to Lebanon signifies a desire to consolidate the gains of the liberation and to safeguard the sovereignty and integrity of the country against external threats.

Moreover, Jumblatt's statement encapsulates the complexities of identity and allegiance in Lebanon, a country characterized by its diverse religious and sectarian makeup. The aftermath of the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon brought to the forefront questions of loyalty and belonging, particularly for the individuals and groups who had been actively involved in the resistance against the Israeli occupation. Jumblatt's call for allegiance to Lebanon can be seen as a plea for transcending sectarian and ideological divisions in favor of a unified national identity.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the enduring legacy of the Israeli occupation and the subsequent liberation of southern Lebanon. The experiences of those who lived through this tumultuous period have left a lasting impact on the collective memory of the Lebanese people. Jumblatt's words serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience displayed during a time of adversity, as well as a reaffirmation of the need to uphold the values of patriotism and devotion to the nation.

In conclusion, Walid Jumblatt's quote "Those who liberated the South from Israel must show allegiance to Lebanon" encapsulates the multifaceted implications of the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and resonates deeply with the complex history and dynamics of the region. It calls for a sense of national unity, loyalty, and devotion to Lebanon in the aftermath of a protracted struggle for liberation. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the Lebanese-Israeli conflict and the imperative of upholding the sovereignty and integrity of Lebanon.