U.S. representative affirms Israel's obligation to abide by actions, as Lebanon progresses with disarming Hezbollah
Lebanon Prepares for Hezbollah Disarmament as Part of Phased Plan
In a significant development, Lebanon is preparing a government-backed plan for the disarmament of Hezbollah, linked to a staged troop withdrawal by Israel. The plan, which is expected to be finalized soon, aims to address the disarmament of Hezbollah and other armed groups in Lebanon, with a deadline set for December 31, 2025.
President Aoun has stated that authorities will do "everything possible... to spare Lebanon any internal or external shock" in this process. He has also emphasized the need for "other parties" to adhere to the contents of the joint declaration, and for more support for the Lebanese army, as well as expedited steps towards reconstruction.
The phased plan involves four stages:
- A two-week initial stage where government approval for disarmament is sought, Israeli military actions cease, and the Lebanese army gains access to military sites.
- A 45-day second stage to begin disarming armed groups, Lebanese army deployments in southern border areas, and Israel withdrawing from some control points.
- A 30-day transition stage for full Hezbollah withdrawal south of the Litani River, and Israel completing withdrawal from other control points.
- A final 30-day stage for full dismantling of Hezbollah’s rockets, missiles, and other heavy weaponry, and full Lebanese security control.
However, Hezbollah has expressed opposition to this step-by-step framework. Its deputy leader, Naim Qassem, stated that Hezbollah will not discuss a national defense strategy or disarm until Israel fully implements the ceasefire agreement signed on November 27, 2024. Hezbollah rejects simultaneous disarmament and Israeli withdrawal, insisting Israel must first comply fully with the truce before any negotiations on defense or disarmament can proceed.
The November truce, which ended more than a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, saw Hezbollah emerge badly weakened from the war. The group was to withdraw its fighters from near the Israeli border, and its weapons were to come under the control of the Lebanese state.
The US text also provides for demarcating Lebanon's land borders with Israel and neighbouring Syria, and a process involving the international community to support reconstruction. Washington is currently discussing with Israel about its position regarding the truce and withdrawal.
Israel has kept troops at five border points it deems strategic and has continued to strike Lebanon. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has warned that if Lebanon rejects the US plan, Israel will intensify its attacks, Lebanon will be economically isolated, and none of them will be able to respond to the aggression.
US envoys have been involved in negotiations and stress that any disarmament must address the socio-economic impact on Hezbollah fighters dependent on Iranian support. There is cautious optimism but recognition that progress depends on earnest commitments from both Israel and Lebanon, with Hezbollah remaining a key sticking point until Israel’s compliance with the ceasefire is clear.
Barrack, the US diplomat, has emphasized that "dealing with Hezbollah, as we've always said, is a Lebanese process". He has also mentioned the need for an economic plan for Lebanon's prosperity, restoration, and renovation. The US diplomat, Barrack, stated that Israel's full withdrawal from Lebanon and ceasing of violations is the next step needed.
The current status of the November truce agreement implementation between Israel, Hezbollah, and Lebanon is contingent on Hezbollah's acceptance and Israel's fulfillment of the ceasefire terms signed in November 2024.
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