Since taking office, President Aoun has upheld a policy termed the “state monopoly on arms.” In the ceasefire agreement reached in 2024, Hezbollah committed to withdrawing its fighters and weapons from southern Lebanon, an area that has been under its influence for years. Despite this, Hezbollah maintains significant control over Beirut’s southern suburbs, known as Dahieh, and the eastern Bekaa Valley, where part of its arsenal is stored. Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s secretary-general, has dismissed the notion of engaging in comprehensive disarmament discussions across the nation, indicating the group’s resistance to relinquishing its military capabilities.
Why It Matters
This situation is critical as it underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding armed groups in Lebanon, particularly Hezbollah, which has a longstanding history of wielding significant military power independent of the Lebanese state. The “state monopoly on arms” policy is pivotal to efforts aimed at reinforcing national sovereignty and addressing the fragmentation of military authority. The ceasefire agreement of 2024 represents a significant moment in Lebanese politics, as it reflects both the challenges and complexities of disarming non-state actors, a key factor in Lebanon’s stability and governance.
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