Lebanese Army Updates Cabinet on Progress to Disarm Hezbollah

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah. On Monday, the Lebanese army shared its initial report regarding efforts to disarm Hezbollah, following the cabinet's approval of the plan last month. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have begun phase one of this initiative, which was agreed upon despite the absence of Shiite ministers from the cabinet meeting. The plan aims to dismantle all Hezbollah weapons and facilities south of the Litani River within three months. General Rodolphe Haykal, the army commander, presented the progress during a four-hour cabinet session. Information Minister Paul Morcos mentioned that while the monthly report was reviewed, discussions would remain confidential. Sources indicate that the LAF is steadily advancing with phase one. An international observer recently met with senior Lebanese officials, including Gen Haykal, and shared, "He's thoroughly inspecting every valley and hill. I believe this will ensure complete control of the area, preventing any weapon buildup and removing all strategic arms from the south." They also noted Gen Haykal's firm commitment to completing this phase. However, they cautioned that delays could undermine trust among involved parties, including international supporters. The plan also grants the army authority to prevent weapons transfers between regions, allowing security forces to stop and search those suspected of moving arms internally-a measure described by a former senior Lebanese official as unprecedented. Hezbollah and its supporters have criticized the disarmament, especially given ongoing Israeli presence in parts of Lebanese territory and daily airstrikes. Despite resistance from Shiite ministers and allies, most of the cabinet agreed last August to move forward with this significant step. Lebanon faces pressure from the United States and the consequences of Israeli strikes. Since a ceasefire last November, over 100 civilians have been killed, and more than 80,000 remain displaced. The ceasefire required Hezbollah to remove its presence south of the Litani, with the LAF and UN peacekeepers expected to replace them. Israel was also supposed to withdraw but has not complied fully. While some satisfaction exists regarding the progress, concerns remain about how much delay Israel’s leadership will tolerate before resuming large-scale attacks. The last major conflict caused massive loss of life and displacement. Phases two through five plan to disarm Hezbollah and other armed groups across Lebanon, though these stages currently lack clear timelines. The international observer emphasized the importance of the Lebanese government firmly committing to full disarmament. Recently, the US approved $230 million to support Lebanon’s underfunded security forces. Unfortunately, the situation remains fragile; on Monday, an Israeli drone strike killed two people in south Lebanon, including Hassan Atwi, a Hezbollah member, and his wife. May Allah grant them peace. We pray for peace and stability in Lebanon and for the safety of all its people.