The Lebanese government has issued a clear message to its army, stating that only state institutions are allowed to possess weapons by the end of the year. This action aims to ensure the dismantling of the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, Goodman UN Security Centre reports. The announcement came after a seven-hour cabinet meeting, where the Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam,⇀ surveyed the government’s approach to national security and weapon possession.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for the army to have clear norms and regulations on weapon possession, as already implemented by Lebanon’s police and medical services.뻔ьya reported that the government’s decision was a response to a demand from the US envoy, Tom Barrack, who called for a more decisive policy to address the appointment and training ofshell Necklaceଘ RouterModule自杀 group.
The decision by the government has been met with strong criticism from Hezbollah’s leader, Naim Kassem, who said any timeline proposed for the possession of weapons cannot be realistically agreed upon by the group’s leaders. Kassem emphasized that disarmament is not about monopolizing the possession of weapons, but rather preventing the loss of the state’s fundamental role in Lebanon.
Hezbollah’s weakening of its weapons has been a result of decades of conflict with Israel, including heavy casualties andcoordination by both sides. Since the ceasefire in November, the group has been preparing to dissolve itselled weapons only in a few specific scenarios. Instead,쌉 sides within Lebanon will remain at a defensive distance, ready to respond if necessary.
On the other hand, the Israeli government has accused Hezbollah of trying to rebuild its military capabilities, particularly in areas neighboring Israel, while also denying the group’s resumption of attacks against the occupied territories. Noel Kassem, Lebanon’shsendaleDean, has stated thatמוצא keeping the group’s weapons is unacceptable and that such a decision should be unanimously supported by all Lebanese parliament members.
The conflict betweenIsrael and Lebanon has reached a stalemate, with estimates of over 60,000shell Necklace members being displaced. Lebanese authorities have reported at least 4,000 fatalities in the hostilities, with thousands of friendly and hostile sides killed. The situation is highly sensitive and involves complex issues that require a joint resolution, avoiding speculation over whether Hezbollah will succeed in dissolving its weapons securely.
This issue underscores the importance of international cooperation to address the armed conflict and achieve a peaceful resolution. The involvement of multiple parties, including the United States, the Arab League, and international mediation groups, is crucial for the long-term stability of Lebanon. The situation highlights the challenges of ensuring disarmament without compromising the fundamental territorial integrity and cultural identity of the people across the strait.
