Lebanon approves US disarmament plan for Hezbollah

Lebanon's cabinet supports a US proposal aimed at disarming Hezbollah amid rising tensions.

Hezbollah ministers protest Beirut's approval of US disarmament plan

The Lebanese cabinet recently approved a US proposal that focuses on disarming Hezbollah, a controversial move that has triggered protests from Hezbollah ministers and their Shi’ite allies. The plan outlines a four-phase approach, aiming to dismantle the group's military capabilities by the end of 2025. Lebanon's Information Minister, Paul Morcos, confirmed that the cabinet accepted the proposal's objectives, which include ensuring Israel withdraws its forces from southern Lebanon. However, many in Hezbollah view the plan as a threat to Lebanon's sovereignty, insisting they will ignore its instructions. Amid rising regional tensions, the US sees this as a vital step for stability.

This move reflects a deepening rift within Lebanon’s political landscape, especially between the government and Hezbollah. As Hezbollah ministers walked out in protest, it highlights the group's significant influence and the challenges the government faces in enforcing such a disarmament plan. The proposed timeline brings urgency, with various phases aiming for military and territorial changes that may not fully align with the interests of all Lebanese factions. The stakes are high, not just for Lebanon, but also for regional stability, which hinges on both internal compliance and external pressures from Israel and Iran.

Highlights

The evolving situation could redefine Lebanon's political landscape, along with its relations with regional powers.