Lebanon has initiated a process to disarm all militant groups within its territory, starting with the handover of weapons at the Burj al-Barajneh Palestinian camp in the southern suburbs of Beirut. This move is part of a broader government decision to monopolize arms possession in the country, including those held by Hezbollah. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed the commencement of the disarmament process, which will continue with additional weapons handovers in the coming weeks across other camps. Lebanese Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Metri emphasized the importance of extending the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mandate for another year, citing its political and stabilizing role alongside the Lebanese army, particularly in southern Lebanon near the Litani River. Metri also highlighted the need for Israeli approval of a U.S.-prepared proposal related to the ceasefire agreement, though Israel has yet to confirm acceptance. U.S. special envoy Barrack, representing the Trump administration, stated that it is Israel's turn to comply with the 2024 ceasefire terms. The U.S. supports the continuation of UNIFIL until Hezbollah is disarmed, a demand complicated by Hezbollah's resistance and threats of renewed civil conflict. The success of Lebanon's disarmament efforts is seen as critical to establishing full state sovereignty and preventing a return to hostilities with Israel. Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reported that the situation along the Lebanese-Syrian border remains under control. The U.S. State Department has underscored the importance of peace between neighboring countries, including Israel and Syria, as part of its vision for a stable and prosperous Middle East.
The symbolic but significant event in the Burj al-Barajneh camp south of Beirut comes amid Lebanon’s efforts to disarm all militant groups in the country https://t.co/rYZXDVYQiM
The Iran-backed Hezbollah militia is resisting calls to disarm and has threatened a new "civil war." Finding a solution that includes Israeli security interests remains challenging. https://t.co/SqwSmLHASo
Hezbollah has infiltrated Lebanese Army. But U.S. is going to continue @UNIFIL_ mission until the Lebanese army disarms Hezbollah - ie forever https://t.co/dcsp02eWhr