Lebanon Rejects U.S. Call To Disarm Hezbollah
U.S. envoy received Lebanon’s reply to proposal on Hezbollah.
On July 7, President Joseph Aoun handed Barrack a seven-page reply to Washington's proposal urging the disarmament of Hezbollah as part of post-ceasefire arrangements. While the document remains unpublished, reports indicate that Lebanon called for Israel to vacate five positions taken during the latest conflict and abide by past ceasefire commitments.
The U.S. diplomat described Lebanon’s reply as “spectacular” and signaled U.S. support could hinge on Beirut aligning with regional shifts. However, Lebanon’s position also included demands for Israel to return prisoners and for U.S. enforcement of Security Council Resolution 1701.
Hezbollah has refused to disarm while Israeli forces continue airstrikes and remain on Lebanese soil. “We cannot be asked to lay down arms while aggression continues,” Hezbollah deputy chief Naim Qassem said during an Ashura speech in Beirut.
While Lebanese officials and segments of society support the idea of consolidating arms under state control, many see Hezbollah’s armed presence as a deterrent against further Israeli incursions—especially given past invasions and unresolved territorial disputes such as Shebaa Farms and Kfarchouba Hills.