What's happened
On August 6, 2025, Lebanon's cabinet authorized the army to prepare a plan to restrict weapons possession to state forces by year-end, aiming to disarm Hezbollah amid US pressure and ongoing Israeli strikes. Hezbollah rejected the move as a 'grave sin,' refusing disarmament without Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory and cessation of attacks.
What's behind the headline?
Lebanon's Disarmament Push Amid Regional Tensions
Lebanon's recent cabinet decision to task the army with disarming Hezbollah marks a historic shift in the country's internal power dynamics. For decades, Hezbollah has maintained its arsenal as a key political and military force, justified as resistance against Israel. The decision reflects growing US influence and pressure to stabilize Lebanon by consolidating military power under the state.
Hezbollah's Rejection and Strategic Calculations
Hezbollah's outright rejection of disarmament, labeling it a 'grave sin' and accusing the government of serving Israeli interests, underscores the group's determination to retain its military capabilities. However, its restraint from violent retaliation suggests a strategic recalibration after heavy losses in the recent war, including the death of senior leaders and thousands of fighters.
The Role of Israel and Regional Actors
Israel's continued occupation of five border points and near-daily airstrikes complicate disarmament efforts. Hezbollah demands Israeli withdrawal and cessation of attacks as preconditions, while the US and Lebanese government link disarmament to ending Israeli military actions. Iran's support for Hezbollah adds another layer of complexity, opposing disarmament efforts but denying direct control over Hezbollah's decisions.
Political Fragility and Sectarian Risks
Lebanon's sectarian divisions make disarmament a sensitive issue. The departure of Shia ministers from cabinet sessions signals internal dissent. President Aoun's framing of the issue as a choice between 'collapse and stability' highlights the stakes. Failure to reach consensus risks escalating tensions and undermining national peace.
Forecast and Implications
Lebanon will likely continue negotiating a delicate balance between disarming Hezbollah and maintaining internal stability. The US-backed roadmap aims to link disarmament with Israeli withdrawal and reconstruction aid, but Hezbollah's firm stance and regional dynamics suggest protracted talks. The situation remains volatile, with potential for renewed conflict if diplomatic efforts falter. For the international community, Lebanon's stability is crucial to regional security and countering Iranian influence.
Impact on Readers
While geographically distant, the conflict affects global energy markets, refugee flows, and international security policies. Understanding Lebanon's internal struggles provides insight into broader Middle East tensions and the challenges of state sovereignty amid non-state armed groups.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports that Lebanon's cabinet authorized the army to prepare a disarmament plan amid US pressure and ongoing Israeli strikes, with Hezbollah rejecting the move as a 'grave sin' and accusing the government of serving Israeli interests. The New Arab highlights Hezbollah's outright dismissal of the government's decision, calling it 'as if it did not exist' and emphasizing the group's view that disarmament would leave Lebanon vulnerable. AP News details Hezbollah's conditions for disarmament, including Israeli withdrawal from occupied hills and cessation of airstrikes, while noting the Lebanese government's request for the army to prepare a weapons monopoly plan by year-end. The Times of Israel provides insight into internal Lebanese political dynamics, describing cabinet debates, ministerial walkouts, and Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem's televised rejection of US 'dictates,' warning of retaliation if Israel resumes large-scale aggression. The Japan Times and The Independent contextualize the cabinet's decision within the broader US-brokered ceasefire framework and Lebanon's efforts to stabilize after a devastating war. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun's statements, covered by The New Arab and The Independent, emphasize the state's commitment to disarm all armed groups, including Hezbollah, linking international aid to progress on this front. These sources collectively illustrate a complex interplay of domestic politics, regional security concerns, and international diplomacy shaping Lebanon's contentious disarmament efforts.
How we got here
Hezbollah, Lebanon's dominant armed group since the civil war, was significantly weakened after a year-long conflict with Israel ending in November 2024. The US has pressured Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah as part of implementing the ceasefire, demanding a state monopoly on weapons. Hezbollah insists on Israeli withdrawal from occupied areas and an end to airstrikes before discussing disarmament.
Go deeper
- What are Hezbollah's conditions for disarmament?
- How is Israel involved in the Lebanon-Hezbollah conflict?
- What role does the US play in Lebanon's disarmament efforts?
Common question
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What Are the Latest Political and Security Tensions in Lithuania and Lebanon?
Recent developments in Lithuania and Lebanon have sparked international concern. Lithuania's government faces upheaval after the Prime Minister's resignation amid scandal, while Lebanon pushes for disarmament of Hezbollah's weapons amidst regional tensions. These shifts raise questions about regional stability and future implications. Below, we explore the key issues and what they mean for the region and beyond.
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Why Is Hezbollah Refusing to Disarm in Lebanon?
The ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Lebanon's government, along with regional tensions, has kept the issue of disarmament at the forefront. While Lebanon's leadership seeks to establish sovereignty and control over weapons, Hezbollah remains resistant, citing security concerns and external threats. This complex situation raises questions about regional stability, sovereignty, and the future of Lebanon's armed forces. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding Hezbollah's stance and the broader implications for Lebanon and the Middle East.
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What Are the Latest Developments in Middle East and South Caucasus Diplomacy?
Recent events in Lebanon and the South Caucasus are reshaping regional stability. Lebanon's efforts to disarm Hezbollah amid controversy and the US-brokered peace deal in the South Caucasus are key topics. Curious about what these moves mean for regional peace and security? Below, we answer the most common questions about these complex diplomatic efforts.
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Why is Lebanon trying to disarm Hezbollah now?
Lebanon's recent move to disarm Hezbollah has sparked widespread debate and concern across the Middle East. With the Lebanese government authorizing the army to prepare a plan to restrict weapons to state forces, many wonder what’s behind this push and what it means for regional stability. In this page, we explore the reasons for Lebanon’s disarmament efforts, Hezbollah’s response, and the broader implications for Middle East peace and security.
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What Are the Implications of US and Middle East Tensions Over Lebanon's Disarmament?
Recent developments in Lebanon's efforts to disarm Hezbollah have sparked regional and international concern. With US pressure, Israeli strikes, and Lebanon's internal political debates, many are wondering what this means for stability in the Middle East. Below, we explore key questions about these tensions, their potential outcomes, and what they could mean for the future of the region.
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Hezbollah is a Shia Islamist political party and militant group based in Lebanon. Hezbollah's paramilitary wing is the Jihad Council, and its political wing is the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc party in the Lebanese parliament.
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Lebanon, officially known as the Lebanese Republic, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south, while Cyprus lies west across the Mediterranean Sea.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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