As Lebanon approaches the completion of a crucial phase in the disarmament of Hezbollah south of the Litani River, the region stands on the brink of a significant transformation. The efforts, aimed at solidifying peace after over a year of conflict with Israel, reflect Lebanon’s commitment to sovereignty and stability in the region, guided by international collaboration and local leadership. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s recent announcements illustrate the critical steps being taken to secure a peaceful future for Lebanon, despite ongoing challenges and external pressures.
Lebanon is on the verge of finalizing the disarmament of Hezbollah in the southern region south of the Litani River, as outlined in a ceasefire agreement with Israel. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced that this pivotal aspect of the US-backed deal, struck in November last year, is nearing completion ahead of the year-end deadline. This agreement marked the end of a prolonged period of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
The disarmament initiative, aimed at consolidating state control over arms, particularly affects the Iran-aligned Lebanese armed group in territories adjacent to Israel. Following a mandate from the government, the Lebanese army was tasked with devising a comprehensive plan to implement this crucial state monopoly on arms by the close of 2025. Prime Minister Salam emphasized the significance of the first phase, stating that it is “only days away from completion.” He indicated the state’s readiness to shift to the next phase of the plan, which includes confiscating weapons in areas north of the Litani River.
In a related development, Salam convened with Simon Karam, Lebanon’s leading civilian negotiator, during a meeting of a committee overseeing the Hezbollah-Israel truce. The discussions, which aim to facilitate the return of displaced populations, are crucial to preventing future conflicts, especially if the target for Hezbollah’s disarmament is not met.
This 15th committee meeting underscored a US intention to expand dialogue between the involved parties, beyond mere ceasefire monitoring. In a meeting held in Naqoura, a southern Lebanese coastal town, participants analyzed measures to support the safe return of citizens displaced by recent conflicts and discussed necessary steps for economic recovery in the aftermath of the violence.
Despite the ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes have continued in southern Lebanon and occasionally struck other areas, such as the capital, raising concerns about the Lebanese army’s efforts to disarm Hezbollah. The group, which has traditionally positioned itself as a defender against external threats, faces significant domestic and international pressure to comply with the disarmament, insisting that doing so while facing ongoing Israeli air operations would be inadvisable. Israel has urged Lebanese authorities to fulfill their commitments under the truce, warning that it will take necessary actions if Lebanon fails to address the Hezbollah situation adequately.
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