Lebanese Army Assumes control of Key Hezbollah Positions in Southern Lebanon
April 12, 2025
Following a ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah has reportedly transferred control of numerous military locations to the Lebanese army, marking a critically important shift in the region’s security landscape. Ongoing tensions persist as discussions continue regarding the disarmament of the militia group.
Background: The Ceasefire Agreement
The transfer of military locations is a direct result of the ceasefire agreement implemented on nov. 27, which ended over a year of conflict between Hezbollah and israel.This agreement, brokered by international entities, aims to stabilize the region by limiting the presence of armed groups. The core tenets of the agreement include:
- Only the United Nations Peace Guard (UN) and the lebanese army are authorized to operate in southern Lebanon.
- hezbollah is required to dismantle its military infrastructure in the south.
- Hezbollah fighters must relocate north of the Litani River, approximately 19 miles from the Israeli border.
The Litani River serves as a critical demarcation line, intended to create a buffer zone and reduce the potential for renewed conflict. This agreement is seen as a crucial step toward establishing long-term stability in the region.
Hezbollah Transfers Control
A source close to Hezbollah reported that the group has handed over a significant number of its military positions to the Lebanese army.The source, who remained anonymous, stated:
Of the 265 Hezbollah military positions identified in Litani, South Lebanon, the movement has handed about 190 of them to the army.
This transfer represents a significant portion of Hezbollah’s infrastructure in the area, signaling a commitment to the terms of the ceasefire. the Lebanese army’s increased presence is expected to enhance security and stability in the region.
Israel’s Partial Withdrawal
The ceasefire agreement also stipulated the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon by Feb. 18, following an initial missed deadline in January. However, Israel maintains a presence in five strategic locations within Lebanon. Thes locations are viewed by Israel as critical for monitoring and responding to potential threats from Hezbollah.
Despite the partial withdrawal, tensions remain high. Israel continues to conduct operations targeting what it describes as Hezbollah infrastructure and members within Lebanon. These actions underscore the ongoing security concerns and the fragile nature of the ceasefire.
U.S. Diplomacy and Disarmament Efforts
The United States is actively involved in efforts to ensure the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement. Morgan Ortagus, the U.S. special envoy for the Middle East, recently discussed the disarmament of Hezbollah with senior lebanese officials during a visit to the country. In an interview with the Lebanese LBCI television channel, Ortagus emphasized the U.S.position:
We continue to urge this government to fully meet the termination of hostility, and that includes disarming the Hezbollah weapon and all militias.
Morgan Ortagus, U.S.Special Envoy for the Middle East
Ortagus further stated that this disarmament should happen as soon as possible.
The U.S., along with France, co-chairs a committee tasked with overseeing the ceasefire, highlighting the international commitment to maintaining stability in the region.
Looking Ahead
The transfer of military positions from Hezbollah to the Lebanese army marks a significant step toward implementing the ceasefire agreement. Though,challenges remain,including the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops and the disarmament of Hezbollah. Ongoing diplomatic efforts, particularly those led by the U.S. and France, are crucial for addressing these challenges and ensuring long-term stability in southern Lebanon.
