In a significant development, the Lebanese army has officially assumed security responsibilities throughout southern Lebanon, an area historically dominated by Hezbollah. This strategic initiative, backed by the government, aims to disarm non-state armed groups following a recent ceasefire agreement. While Lebanese authorities have declared the first phase of this plan successfully completed, international observers, particularly from Israel and the United States, maintain a cautious stance regarding the disarmament's overall effectiveness.
For many years, the territory south of the Litani River, a crucial zone bordering Israel, has been under Hezbollah's de facto control. The Lebanese army's assertion of authority signifies a determined effort by the government to re-establish state sovereignty. This move also addresses international concerns about the presence of heavily armed non-state actors in the region. The initiative intends to systematically remove unauthorized weaponry and personnel, a directive that has been met with varied reactions.
The announcement occurs amid heightened fears of an escalation in Israel's military campaign against Hezbollah positions, which has intensified recently. International pressure, notably from the United States, has reportedly increased on Beirut to curb Hezbollah's military capabilities. Intelligence suggests Hezbollah, allegedly supported by Iran, has been actively rearming and rebuilding its operational capacity. These claims have fuelled Israeli anxieties and prompted retaliatory actions from its military forces.
According to official statements, infrastructure previously associated with Hezbollah has been dismantled. The organization itself has indicated its compliance with the ceasefire by withdrawing fighters from designated areas. The army has declared its initial objectives achieved in a "tangible and effective manner." However, the task remains substantial, requiring extensive work to clear unexploded ordnance and address the region's complex tunnel network.
Despite these pronouncements, Israeli officials have expressed considerable doubt about the disarmament efforts' efficacy. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the development as "an encouraging beginning, but they are far from sufficient." They cited ongoing concerns about Hezbollah's continued attempts to rearm and reconstitute its infrastructure with Iranian backing. Reports suggest Prime Minister Netanyahu had previously secured authorization for potential military escalation against Hezbollah if disarmament proved inadequate.
The Lebanese government, however, contests these Israeli claims, characterizing ongoing Israeli attacks and occupation of positions as violations hindering the army's disarmament initiatives. The complex geopolitical landscape, further complicated by the presence of Palestinian factions, underscores the precarious security situation in southern Lebanon. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the Lebanese army can achieve uncontested control and lasting de-escalation or if the region will remain a flashpoint for renewed conflict.