The Lebanese army announced the successful completion of the first phase of its operation to disarm Hezbollah, focusing on the territory from the Israeli border to the Litani River. In a detailed statement, the army confirmed that it had met the objectives set for this initial stage and expressed intentions to expand operations across the rest of Lebanon.
Hezbollah, which has experienced significant setbacks following a conflict with Israel in November 2024, has not agreed to surrender its weapons outside the initial designated area. The Lebanese army, as a result, now claims control over the region south of the Litani River, but noted that certain locations remain under Israeli occupation.
Despite a ceasefire agreement that has been in effect for more than a year—which mandates Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese lands—Israel continues to hold onto five critical points along the border. The Israeli military maintains operations aimed at countering what it perceives as Hezbollah’s efforts to rearm, raising questions regarding the efficacy of the Lebanese army’s disarmament initiatives.
As per the terms of the ceasefire, Hezbollah is required to pull its forces north of the Litani River and dismantle its military installations in the areas being vacated. The Lebanese army has reiterated that its operations will persist in the southern part of the country, focusing on the removal of unexploded ordnance and the investigation of tunnels that may have been constructed by Hezbollah.
To further ensure stability, the army announced plans to implement measures that would permanently hinder armed groups from re-establishing their military capabilities. Army Commander Rodolphe Haykal is set to provide an update to the government regarding the advancements made in these operations.
The Lebanese government finds itself under considerable pressure from the United States to take decisive action against Hezbollah, particularly in light of concerns over potential escalations in Israeli military operations. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar recently commended the efforts of the Lebanese government and army but emphasized that these measures remain insufficient.
Oversight of the ongoing ceasefire is being managed by a committee that includes representatives from the US, France, Lebanon, Israel, and the United Nations, all tasked with monitoring compliance and fostering stability in the region.
