In a landmark decision, Lebanon’s cabinet has approved an army proposal to disarm the powerful Hezbollah militia, responding to mounting US pressure, though the move has sparked internal dissent and fears of renewed conflict.
On September 5, 2025, the Lebanese government held a cabinet session where army commander Rodolphe Haykal presented a detailed plan for disarming Hezbollah. The plan was welcomed by the government, but no specific timeline was provided, and it was noted that the army’s capabilities are limited. Information Minister Paul Morcos stated that the details would remain confidential, and the army would begin implementation based on its available resources, which may require additional time and effort. This step marks an unprecedented effort to bring all weapons under state control by year’s end, as previously pledged.
The meeting was sharply divided, with five Shia ministers from Hezbollah and its ally, the Amal Movement, walking out in protest before the discussion began. Hezbollah has adamantly refused to consider disarmament while Israeli forces remain in southern Lebanon, arguing that their weapons are essential for defense against ongoing threats. This opposition underscores the deep sectarian rifts within Lebanon’s power-sharing system and raises concerns about the legitimacy of decisions made without full cabinet participation.
International pressure, particularly from the United States, has been a key driver behind this initiative. US envoys Tom Barrack and Morgan Ortagus have engaged in intensive shuttle diplomacy to negotiate a framework that includes Hezbollah’s disarmament and Israeli withdrawal. In a show of support, US Senators Jim Risch and Jeanne Shaheen issued a bipartisan statement applauding Lebanon’s progress and emphasizing the need to free the country from Iranian influence through complete disarmament.
Hezbollah’s role in Lebanon is deeply entrenched, dating back to the end of the civil war in 1990 when it was exempted from disarmament due to its resistance against Israeli occupation. Over the years, it has evolved into a multifaceted organization with significant political, military, and social influence, particularly among the Shia community. This complexity makes any attempt to disarm it not just a security issue but a profound political challenge.
The context of recent conflict adds urgency to the situation. The war between Hezbollah and Israel, sparked by the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, severely weakened Hezbollah, including the loss of its leader Hassan Nasrallah. However, continued Israeli airstrikes and occupation of Lebanese territory have hardened Hezbollah’s resolve, as they view their arms as necessary for national defense amidst perceived aggression.
Observers and analysts warn that forcibly disarming Hezbollah could precipitate a civil war, given the group’s strong support base and the Lebanese army’s potential limitations. The army itself is not unified, with Shia members who might resist actions against Hezbollah, risking internal fragmentation and conflict. Military experts caution that the army lacks the appetite for such a confrontation, which could destabilize the entire region.
Looking ahead, the government plans to receive monthly reports from the army on the progress of the disarmament plan. The path forward depends on delicate negotiations, international diplomacy, and addressing Hezbollah’s security concerns, particularly regarding Israeli withdrawal. Success could lead to a more stable Lebanon, but failure might escalate into violence, shaping the country’s future for years to come.