Hezbollah has strongly condemned the Lebanese government’s decision to disarm the group, labeling it a “grave sin” that undermines the country’s sovereignty. The group stated that it will treat the decision “as if it does not exist,” emphasizing its determination to maintain its weapons and continue resisting Israeli aggression. This development comes amid heightened US pressure and fears of Israel expanding its strikes on Lebanon.
The Lebanese government, led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, tasked the Lebanese army with setting an implementation plan to restrict weapons to state forces before the end of the year. However, Hezbollah views this decision as a result of US dictates, specifically a proposal submitted by US envoy Tom Barrack calling for the group’s disarmament within a specific timeline. Hezbollah believes that disarmament would serve Israel’s interests and leave Lebanon exposed to the Israeli enemy without any deterrence.
Despite rejecting the disarmament decision, Hezbollah expressed openness to dialogue, particularly regarding a national defense strategy. However, the group emphasized that any such discussions must not take place under the current climate of Israeli aggression. Hezbollah’s statement reiterated its condition that Israel must halt its strikes on Lebanon before a new defense strategy is discussed. The group remains committed to liberating Lebanese land, releasing prisoners, and rebuilding what was destroyed by Israeli aggression.
The government’s decision is part of the implementation of the US-brokered ceasefire agreement that ended the war between Hezbollah and Israel on November 27. The agreement stipulates that government authorities, including the army and internal security forces, should be the exclusive bearers of weapons in Lebanon. Hezbollah’s rejection of the disarmament decision has significant implications for the country’s stability and security, potentially leading to further tensions and conflict.
