Hezbollah condemns Lebanese government’s disarmament plan as “grave sin”

Hezbollah has strongly condemned the Lebanese government’s recent decision to pursue the disarmament of all militias, describing it as a “grave sin” that the group would treat “as if it does not exist.”

The announcement has heightened fears of escalating tensions both within Lebanon and with neighboring Israel, potentially prompting intensified Israeli military actions, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

On August 5, following a contentious cabinet meeting, the Lebanese government declared it would task the Lebanese Army with developing a plan to bring all weapons under state control by the end of the year. This move marks a significant attempt by the government to assert sovereignty over the country’s armed factions.

Hezbollah has consistently rejected any discussions regarding its disarmament until Israel ceases its daily bombings of Lebanon and withdraws from five disputed areas within Lebanese territory. The group criticized the government’s decision as weakening Lebanon’s stance against Israeli and US threats. “This decision fully serves Israel’s interests and leaves Lebanon exposed to the Israeli enemy without deterrence,” Hezbollah stated.

The US has been applying intense pressure on the Lebanese cabinet to adopt a clear timetable for Hezbollah’s disarmament as part of a broader roadmap that also addresses economic reforms and the issue of Syrian refugees. Hezbollah views the cabinet’s decision as influenced by US envoy Tom Barrack’s dictates, further fueling domestic polarization.

In sharp contrast, Hezbollah’s opponents have hailed the decision as historic. A source close to ministers nominated by the anti-Hezbollah Lebanese Forces called it “a historic decision by the government,” adding, “There is no grey area in this – it is crystal clear.” Independent MP Michel Moawad described the move as “a turning point for Lebanon,” emphasizing the need to restore sovereignty and the rule of law to prevent another devastating conflict.

Hezbollah officials, including Information Minister Paul Marcos, confirmed that ministers allied with Hezbollah and the Amal Movement opposed the cabinet decision and withdrew from the session. The cabinet is scheduled to continue discussions on the US proposal, which includes disarmament, on August 7.

As tensions rise, concerns grow that mishandling the weapons issue could deepen sectarian divisions and destabilize Lebanon further, risking renewed violence.

By Vafa Guliyeva