Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has outlined three conditions for the possible disarmament of Hezbollah, including Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon. He said the process requires army control and state-led reconstruction. The remarks came during his visit to Washington.
According to the Lebanese presidency, Aoun said Hezbollah disarmament depends on ending Israel’s presence in Lebanese territory. He added that the Lebanese army must assume full control. Aoun also called for reconstruction efforts managed exclusively by the state.
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Aoun described Hezbollah as a Lebanese group formed over four decades through ideological, social, and military development. However, he said the goal of disarmament remains urgent. He stressed that the process requires a careful approach.
Meanwhile, Aoun cited international examples of armed group transitions, including Colombia’s Revolutionary Armed Forces and the Irish Republican Army. He said disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration could provide a framework for Lebanon. The president linked reconstruction with creating economic opportunities.
Additionally, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory had begun under a framework agreement. He called the move the start of a process toward complete withdrawal. The Lebanese army has started deploying in southern areas.
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Salam said Lebanese forces would protect returning residents while continuing security operations and restoring basic services. The June framework agreement links Israeli withdrawal with Lebanese army deployment and the disarmament of armed groups. It does not set a specific withdrawal timeline.
Therefore, Lebanon continues diplomatic efforts to implement the agreement and strengthen state authority. Officials say the process aims to restore security and stability in southern Lebanon. Regional developments will likely influence future steps on disarmament and reconstruction.