Lebanon says Israeli occupation blocks state weapons monopoly plan

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has asserted that Israel's ongoing occupation of southern Lebanese territory is preventing the implementation of the government's initiative to establish state monopoly over all weapons, including those held by Hezbollah. During separate meetings in Beirut with British and Dutch officials, Aoun emphasized that Lebanon's stability directly serves European interests while outlining the challenges facing the arms consolidation plan approved by the Lebanese Cabinet in August.

Weapons Consolidation Plan and Hezbollah Position

The Lebanese government's initiative, scheduled for implementation by the end of 2025, aims to place all weapons under state control through army supervision. However, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has consistently rejected disarmament demands while Israeli forces maintain positions in Lebanese territory. President Aoun noted that the army has partially fulfilled its deployment obligations under the November 2024 ceasefire but cannot complete the process while occupation continues.

Diplomatic Engagement with European Partners

During discussions with UK Assistant Foreign Secretary Hamish Falconer, Aoun received praise for the Lebanese army's coordination with UN peacekeeping forces south of the Litani River. The British official reaffirmed support for Lebanon's military, particularly regarding border surveillance infrastructure projects. Separately, Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans signed a new defense cooperation agreement and invited Aoun to visit the Netherlands while emphasizing continued Dutch support for Lebanese stability efforts.

Ceasefire Violations and Regional Tensions

Despite the nominal ceasefire established in November 2024, tensions remain elevated along the southern border due to near-daily Israeli air incursions into Lebanese territory. Aoun characterized these violations as ongoing threats to civilian lives and property while maintaining that diplomatic negotiations represent the only sustainable solution to end the occupation and facilitate comprehensive weapons consolidation under state authority.