In a significant move towards restoring stability, Palestinian factions in Lebanon have formally handed over weapons to authorities in a bid to end years of armed clashes within refugee camps. The disarmament process, which began this week, is being hailed as a step toward reducing tensions that have plagued camps such as Ain al-Hilweh, the largest Palestinian settlement in the country.
Lebanese officials confirmed that the handover was conducted under the supervision of security forces, with representatives of various Palestinian groups participating. The weapons, ranging from rifles to heavy machine guns, were collected as part of a broader agreement aimed at fostering peace within the overcrowded camps, which have often been flashpoints for violence.
For decades, refugee camps in Lebanon have operated with limited state control, leaving Palestinian factions to govern themselves and maintain armed wings. This autonomy has frequently resulted in violent clashes, sometimes drawing in Lebanese security forces and destabilizing surrounding communities. The latest disarmament effort follows months of negotiations between Palestinian leaders, Lebanese authorities, and mediators.
Residents of the camps expressed cautious optimism, noting that previous peace deals had collapsed due to mistrust and political rivalries. However, many said they hoped this latest initiative would bring lasting calm, especially for children who have grown up amid sporadic gunfire and street battles. Humanitarian groups welcomed the development, stressing that peace within the camps is vital to improving living conditions for the tens of thousands of refugees residing there.
The decision to disarm also reflects broader regional shifts. With the Middle East experiencing renewed diplomatic efforts to ease conflicts, Palestinian factions in Lebanon appear eager to align themselves with initiatives that prioritize dialogue over armed confrontation. Analysts suggest the move may also be linked to pressure from Lebanese authorities, who are keen to reassert control amid the country’s ongoing economic and political crises.
International observers, including representatives from the United Nations, praised the step as a “positive signal” but warned that disarmament must be followed by tangible measures to improve governance, security, and socio-economic opportunities for refugees. Without such measures, they cautioned, tensions could resurface despite the symbolic surrender of weapons.
As the process continues, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the disarmament can deliver sustainable peace. For many Palestinians in Lebanon’s refugee camps, the hope is that this historic step will mark the beginning of a future where disputes are settled through dialogue rather than armed conflict.
