Lebanese Government Approves Army Weapons Plan
ISTANBUL – The Lebanese government has approved a plan to place all weapons under state control. The Cabinet decided to keep the plan’s details secret.
Cabinet Decision
Information Minister Paul Marcos said the Cabinet “reviewed the army’s plan, welcomed it, and agreed to keep its contents confidential.” The army will report progress to the government every month.
The plan will start using available funds, personnel, and equipment.
Lebanon and UN Resolution 1701
Marcos confirmed Lebanon’s commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The resolution calls for a permanent ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, and up to 15,000 UNIFIL troops to support the army.
He criticized Israel for violating the resolution. President Joseph Aoun condemned Israeli attacks and praised Lebanese diplomacy for renewing UNIFIL’s mandate, calling it “a victory for Lebanon.” Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said, “No investments will happen without ensuring security.”
Protest in Cabinet
Five Shiite ministers left the session in protest. They were Finance Minister Yassine Jaber, Environment Minister Tamara Al-Zein, Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine, Labor Minister Mohammad Haidar, and Administrative Development Minister Fadi Makki. They walked out after Army Commander Rodolphe Haykal presented the plan.
Targeting Hezbollah
The Cabinet tasked the army with a disarmament plan. Observers see this as targeting Hezbollah for the first time in years. The Cabinet also supported a US-backed proposal for exclusive state control of all weapons.
Background of Israeli Attacks
Israel launched military operations on October 8, 2023. By September 2024, the conflict escalated into full-scale war, killing over 4,000 people, including Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, and injuring 17,000.
A ceasefire began in November. Israel continues near-daily attacks in southern Lebanon. The truce required Israel to withdraw by January 26. The deadline was later extended to February 18. Israel still maintains five military posts along the border.
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