Recent developments in Lebanon have brought the issue of disarmament and military sovereignty to the forefront of national discourse. An official source has confirmed that the Lebanese government is engaged in direct negotiations with Hezbollah regarding the disarmament of non-state armed groups and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory. This dialogue is crucial as it addresses longstanding concerns raised by Hezbollah, indicating a potential shift towards a more unified approach to security in the region.
The Lebanese army, which currently has approximately 6,500 troops deployed south of the Litani River, is expected to increase its presence to 10,000. This escalation comes in the wake of a recent UN Security Council resolution that extended the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) until the end of 2026. The resolution also outlines a phased withdrawal of UNIFIL forces from areas where they have been stationed for over four decades. The Lebanese source emphasized that with Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon, the army would be fully capable of fulfilling its duties in coordination with UNIFIL forces.
A significant aspect of this ongoing dialogue is the Lebanese Army’s success in confiscating weapons in the region. The source revealed that the army has completed over 80 percent of its mission south of the Litani River, seizing various types of weapons without facing opposition from Hezbollah. This cooperation is noteworthy, as it contrasts with the expectations of conflict between state forces and non-state actors. Military experts have pointed out that the condition of these weapons can vary significantly, with many having an expiration date of 10 to 20 years, influenced by factors such as humidity and storage conditions.
Despite the progress, uncertainty remains regarding the extent of Hezbollah’s military arsenal. The source acknowledged that neither the army nor political leadership has a clear understanding of what remains in Hezbollah’s possession, highlighting the group’s secretive nature. This lack of transparency raises questions about the potential risks associated with the confiscation of weapons, especially following recent incidents that resulted in the deaths of six soldiers during weapon seizures.
The Lebanese government is optimistic about regaining full sovereignty over its territory, emphasizing that the defense strategy is crafted by the army under political guidance. The source reiterated that Lebanon’s military capabilities should not be underestimated and that diplomacy plays a crucial role in achieving sovereignty. The arms embargo, as stipulated in the Taif Agreement and various international resolutions, is viewed as a necessary step rather than a concession to Israel.
In addressing concerns about Hezbollah’s fears regarding the confiscation of its weapons, the source mentioned ongoing discussions aimed at reassuring the group and its supporters. The idea of integrating Hezbollah fighters into the Lebanese Army has been floated as a means of providing social benefits and restoring confidence in state institutions. This approach underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of Hezbollah supporters, who have expressed feelings of betrayal and insecurity.
The dialogue extends beyond military matters, with discussions about economic cooperation and reconstruction efforts. The Lebanese government has expressed openness to assistance from Arab nations, particularly Gulf states led by Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, a Syrian delegation is expected to visit Lebanon to discuss border demarcation and trade relations, indicating a potential thaw in Lebanese-Syrian relations.
As Lebanon navigates these complex issues, the stance on the Shebaa Farms—an area claimed by both Lebanon and Syria—remains contentious. The government has stated that any recognition of the territory as Syrian must be substantiated with documentation, asserting its claim based on historical records.
In summary, Lebanon stands at a pivotal moment in its history, with the potential for significant changes in its security landscape. The ongoing negotiations with Hezbollah and the emphasis on strengthening the Lebanese Army signal a commitment to national sovereignty and stability. As the situation evolves, the importance of diplomacy and cooperation among all parties involved cannot be overstated.