Media: Lebanese president vows state control over all weapons

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to placing all weapons under state control, as authorities intensify efforts to pressure Hezbollah into disarming.

In an interview with Al Arabiya, Aoun declared, “Exclusive control of weapons will be achieved despite the difficulties and obstacles,” noting that the Lebanese authorities are awaiting “the Lebanese army’s plan to monopolize weapons so it can be discussed and approved.”

His remarks come amid mounting pressure on Hezbollah to surrender its arms, a day after the government tasked the military with drafting a comprehensive disarmament plan before the end of the year.

The president stated that the cabinet session scheduled for August 7 “will continue to take the long-awaited decisions regarding the exclusivity of arms,” and emphasised that he is moving “full speed ahead” toward “implementing the terms of the presidential oath and the ministerial statement.”

Aoun also addressed the broader regional context, particularly Lebanon’s fraught relationship with Israel and ongoing diplomatic efforts led by US envoy Tom Barrack. 

Lebanon’s implementation of the American proposal also requires approval from Syria and Israel, along with American and French guarantees,” he said.

He further stressed that “achieving the exclusive control of arms by the state does not undermine Lebanon's rights and sovereignty.”

However, the government’s renewed push to disarm Hezbollah has sparked strong resistance from the group. On August 6, Hezbollah rejected the move, stating it would treat the government’s decision “as if it does not exist,” and accused the authorities of committing a “grave sin.”

By Sabina Mammadli