Hezbollah and Amal Ministers Walk Out Over Disarmament Talks

Ministers from Hezbollah and the Amal Movement staged a walkout at a Lebanese cabinet session on Friday at Baabda Presidential Palace, protesting discussions regarding a U.S.-backed disarmament proposal. The incident marked a significant escalation in tensions surrounding Hezbollah"s extensive arsenal.

The walkout occurred as Lebanese Army Commander General Joseph Aoun entered the room to outline the disarmament plan, which aims to place all weapons under state control. The Shiite ministers objected vehemently, expressing their refusal to engage in talks about disarmament, a move they consider unacceptable. Hezbollah has previously labeled similar proposals a "grave sin," while Amal has called for dialogue without imposed deadlines.

Discussions around disarmament have long been contentious in Lebanon, with Hezbollah consistently resisting any efforts to relinquish its military capabilities. This latest incident underscores the ongoing divide within the Lebanese political landscape, where the Shiite alliance remains firm in its stance against external pressures regarding its armaments.

The implications of this walkout could reverberate through the Lebanese government, potentially stalling any progress on disarmament talks. The situation continues to evolve, with observers closely monitoring how this will affect Lebanon"s political stability and security dynamics in the region, particularly in light of recent developments in neighboring conflicts.