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Lebanon Army Announces Major Security Milestone
The Lebanese army has announced the completion of the first phase of its plan to bring non state weapons under government control in southern Lebanon.
According to an official statement, the operation covered areas between the Litani River and the border with Israel. The army said it has established a state monopoly on arms in an effective and tangible way.
However, the statement did not directly mention Hezbollah.
Military Control South of the Litani River
The army confirmed it now controls territory south of the Litani River. This area lies about 30 kilometers from the Israeli border.
Still, the military noted exceptions. Some land and positions remain under Israeli occupation. As a result, full control in those areas has not yet been achieved.
Meanwhile, the army acknowledged that further work is required. This includes clearing unexploded ordnance and underground tunnels left behind after years of conflict.
Pressure From Regional and International Powers
The announcement comes amid growing pressure on Lebanon. Both the United States and Israel have called on Beirut to disarm Hezbollah.
At the same time, Israel has continued air strikes across Lebanon. These attacks have occurred despite a ceasefire agreement reached in late 2024.
According to a Lebanese security source, the army’s statement sends a clear message. No armed group will be allowed to launch attacks from southern Lebanon.
Government Briefing and Next Phase
Army Commander Rodolphe Haykal is expected to brief the Lebanese government on the progress made. Following this, the cabinet is likely to discuss moving to phase two of the plan.
The next phase would focus on a wider zone. This area stretches north of the Litani River to the Awali River, covering around 40 kilometers.
Israeli Response and Ongoing Tensions
Israel described Lebanon’s efforts as encouraging but insufficient. Israeli officials stated that Hezbollah must be fully disarmed under the ceasefire agreement.
They also accused the group of rebuilding its military capabilities with external support. However, the United Nations peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon said it has seen no evidence of rebuilt infrastructure.
Since the ceasefire, Israeli strikes have killed more than 300 people in Lebanon, including many civilians. Israel continues to hold five positions in southern Lebanon despite agreed withdrawal terms.
Ceasefire Violations and Monitoring
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon has recorded more than 10,000 ceasefire violations. Most were linked to Israeli airspace breaches and ground operations.
Under the ceasefire deal, Hezbollah was required to remove its fighters and weapons from south of the Litani River. The group has resisted further disarmament, citing Israel’s continued military actions.
A monitoring committee made up of representatives from the United States, France, Lebanon, Israel, and the United Nations oversees the ceasefire agreement.
Attribution
Information adapted from international news reporting. Image credit to Reuters via Aziz Taher.
