Lebanon President Demands Hezbollah Disarmament Amidst US Pressure
National Army Weapons Monopoly Key to Proposed Ceasefire Deal
Lebanese President **Joseph Aoun** has issued a compelling appeal to Hezbollah and other political factions, urging them to transfer all weaponry to the national army. This significant call comes as the United States intensifies its diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting cessation of hostilities with Israel.
Aoun’s Call for Unified Military Control
Speaking from the Ministry of Defense, President **Aoun** emphasized the critical juncture facing the nation. He declared, From here, my duty and the duty of all political parties … to seize the historical opportunity, and to pay without hesitation, to emphasize the exclusive arms in the hands of the army and the security forces, and not others.
This statement underscores a push for the state to hold a singular monopoly on armed force within Lebanon.
Hezbollah Rejects Disarmament as Israeli Agenda
The powerful Shiite group, Hezbollah, which reportedly suffered substantial losses during its recent conflict with Israel, has vehemently opposed the calls for disarmament. Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, **Naim Qassem**, stated on Wednesday, Everyone who demands the delivery of weapons is demanding the delivery of weapons to Israel … We will not accept that Lebanon is attached to Israel.
This suggests the group views disarmament as a concession to Israeli interests.
US Leverages Aid for Disarmament Talks
Five sources with direct knowledge of the situation revealed to Reuters that Washington is actively pressing Lebanon to officially commit to disarming Hezbollah. This commitment is reportedly a prerequisite for resuming discussions aimed at halting Israel’s military operations within Lebanon. The stakes are high, as Lebanon’s stability remains a significant concern for regional security.
Proposed US Deal Links Ceasefire to Disarmament and Aid
President **Aoun** outlined a forthcoming proposal to be presented to the Council of Ministers. This plan, originating from Washington, intends to secure a decade-long financial package totaling one billion dollars annually to bolster the Lebanese army and security forces. The proposal also stipulates that Israel must halt its attacks and withdraw from occupied southern Lebanese territories, contingent upon Hezbollah’s disarmament.
Reconstruction and International Support on the Horizon
Beyond security arrangements, the proposed deal includes provisions for an international conference later this year. The conference aims to galvanize support for Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts, offering a path toward recovery and renewed economic stability. Lebanon’s infrastructure was severely damaged in recent conflicts, highlighting the urgent need for international aid.
The Lebanese government is navigating a complex geopolitical landscape, balancing internal political pressures with crucial international demands for peace and security. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether this ambitious proposal can forge a path toward lasting stability.
