Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has expressed his strong commitment to disarming Hezbollah, as the US intensifies pressure on Lebanon to take action against the militant group. Aoun emphasized that disarming Hezbollah would not serve Israeli interests, despite the group’s claims to the contrary.
Hezbollah and Israel engaged in a two-month war last year, which significantly weakened the militant group. Nevertheless, Hezbollah still retains a portion of its arsenal. Israel has continued airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, even after a ceasefire was established in November. The Israeli government has threatened to maintain these strikes until Hezbollah disarms.
Aoun’s Call for Authority and Security
In a speech on Thursday, Aoun stated that Beirut demands the extension of the Lebanese state’s authority over its entire territory. He called for the removal of weapons from all armed groups, including Hezbollah, and their handover to the Lebanese army. Aoun urged politicians to seize this historic opportunity to affirm the army’s monopoly on weapons throughout Lebanon. He believes this step is essential to regain the world’s confidence in Lebanon.
Under the November ceasefire, Hezbollah was supposed to withdraw its fighters north of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers from the Israeli border. Israel, in turn, was expected to withdraw its troops from Lebanon but has maintained a presence in five strategic areas. The ceasefire was based on a UN Security Council resolution that mandated only the Lebanese military and UN peacekeepers should possess weapons in southern Lebanon. Unfortunately, this resolution has remained unfulfilled for years.
Political Dynamics and Hezbollah’s Response
Aoun assumed the presidency in January, ending a two-year vacancy. His election was facilitated by a shifting balance of power following the recent conflict. On Wednesday, Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem responded to Aoun’s statements, asserting that calls for disarmament serve the Israeli agenda. He accused US envoy Tom Barrack of using intimidation and threats during discussions with Lebanese officials.
In recent months, Israel has conducted near-daily strikes in Lebanon, targeting what it claims are Hezbollah militants and infrastructure. On Thursday, Israel launched several strikes on Hezbollah strongholds in southern and eastern Lebanon. Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the targets included Hezbollah’s largest precision missile manufacturing site.
In his speech, Aoun declared that Lebanon is at a crucial stage that cannot tolerate provocations from any side. He reiterated his commitment to establishing a state monopoly on weapons to defend Lebanon’s sovereignty and borders. Aoun addressed Hezbollah’s supporters, recognizing them as an essential pillar of society.
Next Steps for Disarmament
Aoun revealed that Lebanon has proposed modifications to ideas submitted by the United States regarding Hezbollah’s disarmament. A plan will be discussed at a cabinet meeting next week to establish a timetable for implementation. Additionally, Aoun demanded the withdrawal of Israeli troops, the release of Lebanese prisoners, and an immediate cessation of Israeli hostilities.
Aoun emphasized that Lebanon must choose between collapse and stability. Hezbollah remains the only group that retained its weapons after Lebanon’s civil war, citing “resistance” against Israel, which occupied southern Lebanon until 2000. Lebanon has also committed to disarming Palestinian militant groups that control the country’s refugee camps.
