The Lebanese army has announced it has assumed security control in southern Lebanon, a region historically dominated by the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement. This move comes as concerns rise regarding a potential escalation of military action by Israel against Hezbollah.
Lebanon Under Pressure
Since a ceasefire agreement in November 2024 brought an end to a year-long conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Lebanon has faced significant international pressure, particularly from the US, to disarm Hezbollah. The group operates as both a powerful militia and a political party within Lebanon.
The army stated its initial objective has been achieved “in an effective and tangible way,” though work remains to clear unexploded ordnance and tunnels. In recent months, Lebanese soldiers have dismantled infrastructure previously controlled by Hezbollah in the south, reportedly without encountering resistance. Hezbollah maintains it has complied with the ceasefire and withdrawn its fighters from these areas, which also saw activity from Palestinian factions including Hamas.
Differing Assessments
Despite the Lebanese army’s assessment, both US and Israeli officials have voiced frustration with the speed of the disarmament efforts. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office characterized the army’s actions as “an encouraging beginning, but they are far from sufficient,” citing alleged efforts by Hezbollah to rearm with Iranian support. Israeli media reports suggest Netanyahu received approval from US President Donald Trump to potentially intensify military campaigns against Hezbollah.
Israel continues to carry out near-daily attacks on targets it claims are linked to Hezbollah and maintains at least five positions within southern Lebanon, despite the ceasefire. The Lebanese government disputes these claims, asserting they violate the ceasefire agreement and hinder the army’s efforts. Israel has not publicly released evidence supporting its accusations, and UNIFIL, the UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, reports no indication of Hezbollah rebuilding infrastructure in the areas it monitors.
Looking Ahead
Lebanese officials have indicated the next phase of the army’s plan will focus on the area between the Litani and Awali rivers, including the port city of Sidon. However, no timeline has been established, and the Lebanese army has cited insufficient funding and equipment. It remains unclear whether Hezbollah will resist disarmament efforts in these additional areas, as the group has stated it will not disarm north of the Litani River, maintaining a strong presence in the Bekaa Valley and Beirut’s southern suburbs, known as the Dahieh.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun has cautioned against the use of force against Hezbollah, warning it could worsen sectarian divisions and incite violence. Hezbollah, beyond its military role, functions as a political party with parliamentary representation and a social movement providing services like hospitals and schools, enjoying considerable support within Lebanon’s Shia community. While opponents view this as an opportunity to disarm the group, Hezbollah has so far declined to discuss the future of its weapons.
The situation has left tens of thousands of residents in southern Lebanon displaced and communities in ruins, with international partners conditioning reconstruction funds on demonstrable progress regarding Hezbollah’s disarmament.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hezbollah’s role in Lebanon?
Hezbollah is a powerful militia and political party in Lebanon, with representation in parliament and the government. It also operates as a social movement, providing services like hospitals and schools, and enjoys significant support among Lebanon’s Shia community.
What is Israel’s position on Hezbollah?
Israel considers Hezbollah a terrorist organization and accuses it of attempting to rearm and rebuild its infrastructure with Iranian support. Israel has carried out near-daily attacks on targets it says are linked to Hezbollah and continues to occupy positions in southern Lebanon.
What is the Lebanese army’s role in this situation?
The Lebanese army has taken over security in southern Lebanon with the aim of disarming non-state actors, particularly Hezbollah, as part of a government-backed plan. The army has stated its initial objective has been achieved, but more work remains.
Given the complex interplay of domestic Lebanese politics, regional tensions, and international pressure, what long-term solutions might foster stability and security in southern Lebanon?
