As tensions escalate, Lebanon is facing renewed discussions on the disarmament of Hezbollah and its weapons arsenal. This article dives deep into the complex situation, exploring Hezbollah’s conditions for dialog, President Aoun’s initiative, and the international pressure, particularly the U.S. stance, surrounding the issue. Discover the key factors shaping the debate over Hezbollah’s arsenal and the future of Lebanon.
Lebanon Grapples with Hezbollah’s Arsenal Amidst Rising Tensions
Beirut – lebanon is at a critical juncture as discussions surrounding the disarmament of hezbollah gain momentum. This progress unfolds against a backdrop of escalating international pressure and continued israeli military actions.
Hezbollah’s Stance: A Conditional Dialogue
Hezbollah has signaled a willingness to engage in talks regarding its weapons arsenal,but under specific conditions.
Israeli Withdrawal: A key prerequisite for hezbollah is the complete withdrawal of israeli forces from southern lebanon.this includes vacating five hilltop positions that remain under israeli control.
National Defense Strategy: The group proposes addressing the issue of its weapons within the framework of a thorough national defense strategy. Though, this hinges on israel’s withdrawal from the disputed territories.
According to an unnamed official,He is ready to discuss the future of his weapon with president joseph aoun if israel withdrew from southern lebanon and stopped bombing the country.
The official further stated that hezbollah is prepared to discuss its weapons in the context of a national defense strategy, but this depends on the withdrawal of israel from five hills peaks in southern lebanon.
President Aoun’s Initiative
President joseph aoun is reportedly planning to initiate discussions with hezbollah concerning its weapons. Three lebanese political sources confirmed that aoun intends to begin these talks soon.
International Pressure and U.S.policy
The united states is intensifying its pressure on hezbollah, advocating for the group’s disarmament. This stance aligns with the broader u.s. policy of exerting maximum pressure on iran, hezbollah’s primary benefactor.
Morgan ortagus, a u.s. envoy, emphasized the importance of disarming hezbollah.
Hezbollah’s disarmament is part of the maximum pressure policy of the president donald trump on iran.
Ortagus further elaborated on the u.s. position, citing united nations security council resolution 1701.
Resolution 1701 provides for hezbollah’s disarmament on all lebanese territory… and the lebanese army is able, with its current capabilities, to disarm hezbollah.
Ortagus reiterated the urgency of the situation, stating that hezbollah and other armed groups in lebanon should be disarmed as soon as possible
and expressed confidence in the lebanese army’s ability to undertake this task.
Context: Renewed Tensions
The renewed focus on hezbollah’s weapons comes amid ongoing israeli airstrikes in lebanon. These actions have intensified pressure on hezbollah, despite a ceasefire agreement reached in november.
