Beirut set to expand arms control in northern Litani

Lebanon’s government is expected to decide next week on the army’s plan regarding the second phase aimed at placing all weapons under state authority in areas north of the Litani River.

The decision marks a critical step in Lebanon’s broader strategy to consolidate state sovereignty and stabilize the country following the 2024 ceasefire that ended hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The government’s deliberations will be based on a detailed presentation by the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) outlining operational requirements and capabilities for implementing the next stage of the plan.

Progress of the disarmament strategy

Information Minister Paul Morcos confirmed that the government has already completed the first phase of the plan, which involved expanding army operational control in areas south of the Litani River near the Israeli border. The upcoming cabinet session will evaluate the army’s roadmap for extending this authority across additional Lebanese territories, with particular focus on north of the Litani River.

Officials indicate that the proposed strategy will not follow a rigid timetable, allowing the military leadership flexibility to implement the plan according to security conditions and logistical realities. This approach is viewed as a measure aimed at minimizing tensions, particularly given the sensitive nature of arms control in areas where non-state armed groups (namely Hezbollah) maintain influence.

The possibility of direct confrontation between the army and Hezbollah was also ruled out, as Morcos stressed that the government’s objective remains the gradual expansion of state authority while preserving national stability. Despite these assurances, the issue remains politically sensitive, especially as Israel continues to accuse Hezbollah of attempting to rebuild its military capabilities following the ceasefire, claims the group denies.

Army support conference and international backing

Parallel to the government’s deliberations, Lebanon is preparing to participate in an international conference scheduled for 5 March aimed at supporting the Lebanese Army. The cabinet is expected to review the military’s confidential operational plan for northern Litani implementation before the conference, with officials considering its approval a positive step toward securing international assistance.

Political observers anticipate that the conference will serve as a strong signal of global support for Lebanon’s military establishment. The gathering is expected to focus on providing logistical, technical, and financial assistance required for the army to expand its operational role, particularly as discussions continue regarding the future responsibilities of United Nations Interim Force (UNIFIL) in Lebanon in southern Lebanon.

It is worth noting that several countries, including the United States (US), France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt, are likely to contribute to the support framework. The conference is also expected to reinforce international backing for Lebanon’s commitment to the principle of exclusive state control over arms and security operations.

Despite the anticipated international support, the LAF faces considerable challenges in implementing the arms monopoly policy, particularly as Hezbollah has not publicly endorsed the state’s full disarmament agenda. Nevertheless, the conference could provide crucial international legitimacy and operational backing for the military’s mission.

Preparatory discussions have already taken place within army leadership circles to identify equipment, logistical tools, and operational resources required for future deployment. Observers stress that political authorities must demonstrate sustained commitment to restoring state authority to ensure that international assistance translates into tangible security improvements; which is what is expected to occur in next week’s session.

In conclusion, Lebanon’s upcoming decision on extending arms control north of the Litani River represents a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts to reinforce sovereignty and stability. Coupled with anticipated international support for the LAF, the initiative could significantly reshape Lebanon’s security landscape.