International pressure is mounting on Lebanon to assert full state control over arms possession.
According to sources quoted by al-Hadath, this move is now seen as essential for the continuation of both the international Quintet’s role and the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon.
The Quintet, which includes the United States, France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Egypt, may suspend its efforts if no serious steps are taken to begin disarming non-state actors. The same warning applies to the UNIFIL mission, which could be reconsidered if the Lebanese state fails to act, according to these sources.
US envoy Tom Barrack reportedly issued a firm deadline to Lebanese officials: one week to begin tangible action, followed by a six-month review period to assess measurable progress. During his visit to Beirut, Barrack also emphasized that border demarcation with Israel remains a top American priority for achieving lasting regional stability.
In response, Israel is reportedly ready to withdraw from five contested southern positions if Lebanon moves forward with its planned cabinet session in ten days, which will include discussion on the monopoly of arms by the state.
Significantly, sources say Hezbollah ministers will not boycott the upcoming cabinet meeting that will be held to discuss the arms issue, an indication that the group may opt to engage in governmental discussions rather than block them.
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