Lebanese Government Approves Disarmament of All Armed Groups, Including Hezbollah

Kokcha News Agency: The Lebanese cabinet has approved a U.S.-backed proposal to disarm all armed groups in the country, including Hezbollah. Lebanese Information Minister Paul Morcos announced that the decision includes the collection of weapons held by non-state actors and the centralization of all armed forces under state control.

The cabinet meeting, which discussed the U.S. proposal, saw five Shiite ministers representing Hezbollah and the Amal Movement walk out in protest. The U.S. proposal, which aims to end hostilities between Lebanon and Israel, includes a four-stage plan.

The first stage requires the Lebanese government to issue a decree within 15 days committing to the complete disarmament of Hezbollah by December 31, while Israel halts all military operations against Lebanon.

In the second stage, Lebanon will begin implementing the disarmament plan within 60 days, and Israel will withdraw its troops from five occupied points in southern Lebanon. Additionally, Lebanese prisoners held by Israel will be released in coordination with the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The third stage, to be completed within 90 days, involves Israel withdrawing from the remaining two occupied points in southern Lebanon and providing funding for infrastructure work to prepare for reconstruction in Lebanon.

The fourth stage, to be completed within 120 days, includes the destruction of Hezbollah’s remaining heavy weapons, such as missiles and drones. The U.S., Saudi Arabia, France, Qatar, and other friendly nations will organize an economic conference to support Lebanon’s economy and reconstruction efforts.