Lebanese PM Orders Army to Create Arms Monopoly Plan by August, Targeting Hezbollah Disarmament

In a significant move to consolidate state control over weapons, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has tasked the Lebanese Army with drafting a plan to monopolize arms within the country by the end of 2025. This directive comes amid growing pressure on the Iran-backed Shiite militia Hezbollah to disarm, reflecting the Lebanese government"s intent to reassert its authority over armed factions operating within its borders. The Lebanese Information Minister announced that the army is expected to submit its proposal by August, setting a clear timeline for this critical initiative.

Background & Context

The issue of arms control in Lebanon has long been a contentious topic, particularly given the presence of non-state actors like Hezbollah, which has maintained a significant military arsenal independent of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). Since the end of the Lebanese Civil War in 1990, various militias have retained their weapons, leading to a fragmented security landscape. Hezbollah, in particular, has been a focal point of regional tensions, especially in relation to its ties with Iran and its role in the Syrian conflict.

Lebanon"s ongoing economic crisis and political instability have exacerbated calls for disarmament, as the government struggles to maintain order and rebuild trust among its citizens. The Prime Minister"s announcement signals a potential shift in policy aimed at addressing these longstanding issues and reasserting the authority of the Lebanese state over all armed groups.

Key Developments

Prime Minister Salam"s directive marks a pivotal moment in Lebanese politics. The urgency of the task reflects both domestic and international pressures on Hezbollah, which has faced criticism for its military activities and influence in Lebanese governance. The Lebanese Information Minister emphasized that the army"s plan must be comprehensive and take into account the current security dynamics in the region.

This initiative comes on the heels of previous reports highlighting the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon. The government"s ability to implement such a plan effectively will hinge on securing consensus among various political factions and maintaining stability amidst potential backlash from armed groups. The timeline for submission by August indicates a commitment to expedite the process, although the practical challenges of disarming Hezbollah and other militias remain formidable.

Broader Impact

The implications of Lebanon"s arms monopoly plan extend beyond its borders, potentially affecting regional security dynamics. Experts suggest that if successfully implemented, this initiative could serve as a model for other conflict-affected nations grappling with similar issues of armed groups operating outside state control. However, the historical precedent of disarmament in Lebanon raises questions about the feasibility of such an endeavor.

Moreover, the plan"s success will likely depend on the international community"s support, particularly from countries invested in Lebanese stability and security. As previously reported, the situation in Lebanon is intricately linked to broader geopolitical tensions, including Iran"s influence in the region. The potential for conflict between state and non-state actors could escalate if Hezbollah perceives the arms monopoly plan as a direct threat to its existence.

What"s Next

As the Lebanese Army prepares to draft its arms monopoly plan, the focus will be on how the government navigates the complex political landscape and engages with various stakeholders. Key questions remain regarding the timeline for implementation, the methods of disarmament, and the potential for resistance from Hezbollah and other armed groups.

The upcoming months will be critical in determining the feasibility of the government"s objectives. Observers will be closely watching for any indications of cooperation or opposition from Hezbollah, as well as the response from the international community. The success of this initiative could reshape Lebanon"s security landscape, but it will require careful management of internal and external pressures.