Okay, hereS a summary of the key points from the provided text, focusing on the situation regarding Hezbollah‘s weapons and the Lebanese government’s plan to address it:
The Core Conflict:
The central issue is the Lebanese government’s attempt to assert control over all weapons within its borders, specifically including those held by Hezbollah. This is tied to a ceasefire agreement from November 2024 (following conflict in 2023/2024) that stipulated disarming non-state actors.
Government‘s Plan:
The Lebanese government approved a plan to “inventory” all weapons, including Hezbollah’s, and bring them under state control by the end of 2025. The army is tasked with implementing this plan, but the Minister of Information acknowledged the army has “limited logistical, material and human capabilities.”
The plan involves “field measures that include raids,” coordinated with security and military services.
The government views this as a step towards restoring full sovereignty.
Hezbollah’s Position:
hezbollah will not disarm unless Israel fully withdraws from Lebanese territory,ends aggression,releases prisoners,and contributes to reconstruction.
Hezbollah has pledged to maintain its weapons “under any circumstance or pretext.”
Hezbollah views any attempt to disarm it as a reckless decision and warns of consequences.
Complicating Factors:
Israeli Actions: Israel continues to violate the ceasefire agreement with almost daily airstrikes in lebanon, targeting alleged Hezbollah weapons stores and leaders. This is cited by the Lebanese army as a major obstacle to implementing the disarmament plan.
Lack of Israeli Cooperation: The lebanese government states Israel hasn’t shown commitment to a US-mediated agreement that would facilitate the process.
Political Divisions: Shi’a ministers (representing Hezbollah and its ally, the Amal movement) withdrew from a government session during the presentation of the army’s plan, signaling opposition.
Ceasefire Imperfection: Israel still occupies five locations in southern Lebanon despite the ceasefire agreement.
International Involvement:
France: Supports the Lebanese government’s plan and urges all parties to support its peaceful implementation.
* United States: Brokered the ceasefire agreement and presented a paper aimed at facilitating the disarmament process, but its effectiveness is hampered by lack of Israeli cooperation.In essence,the situation is a delicate balancing act. The Lebanese government is under pressure to assert its authority, but faces important challenges from Hezbollah’s unwavering stance, ongoing Israeli aggression, and internal political divisions.
