Lebanon’s government has announced a timeline for the next phase of its initiative to dismantle the military capabilities of Hezbollah in the southern part of the country. Minister of Information Paul Morcos revealed that the Lebanese military anticipates needing at least four months to execute this second phase of the plan, reflecting the government’s commitment to maintaining stability and security in the region.
This announcement comes amidst increasing pressure from Western nations, particularly the United States and Israel, to disarm Hezbollah. The situation remains tense, characterized by periodic Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah interests, despite a ceasefire agreement brokered by the U.S. in 2024, aimed at ending a prolonged period of hostilities that had severely impacted Lebanon’s landscape.
The ceasefire marked a significant turning point, leading to a weakened state for Hezbollah, with notable losses in leadership. As part of the peace agreement, the Lebanese government affirmed its pledge to dismantle Hezbollah’s arsenal and mobilized its military to devise a comprehensive strategy for this action. The first phase of the plan concluded successfully, covering areas between the Litani River and Lebanon’s southern border with Israel. The forthcoming second phase expands the operation further south, reaching areas between the Litani and Awali rivers.
Morcos, addressing the media after a cabinet meeting, noted that the military’s proposal outlined a four-month window for this undertaking. Notably, he mentioned that the timeline could be flexible, depending on various factors such as ongoing Israeli actions and any challenges encountered on the ground.
Hezbollah, for its part, has openly rejected the notion of disarmament, framing the calls to relinquish arms as part of a broader strategy orchestrated by the United States and Israel. The group defends its right to retain its weapons, emphasizing that the incorporation of such measures pertains only to areas south of the Litani River, in alignment with their interpretation of the ceasefire agreement.
In a recent statement, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem condemned the government’s focus on disarmament, characterizing it as detrimental and aligning with Israeli objectives. He articulated concerns about the consequences of what he described as “successive concessions” made by the Lebanese government, suggesting that these actions could exacerbate Israeli aggression.
Amid these developments, recent Israeli military operations have intensified, with reports indicating attacks that have resulted in casualties among the Lebanese populace, including civilians. The Israeli forces have been accused of violating Lebanese sovereignty, further complicating the intricate dynamics of regional security. Lebanon has taken steps to address these violations, submitting formal complaints to the United Nations in hopes of spurring action from the international community.
As Lebanon navigates this complex landscape, the commitment to restoring stability and fostering a secure environment for its citizens continues to be a priority for its government, amidst external pressures and internal challenges.
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