Lebanon’s Disarmament Plan Sparks Cabinet Rift
Cabinet divisions deepen as Hezbollah ministers walk out and Defence Minister warns against unilateral decisions on national arms control.
Lebanon, PUREWILAYAH.COM - Tensions escalated within Lebanon’s cabinet as Defence Minister Fadi Makki warned against approving major decisions without full political consensus—particularly the participation of Hezbollah and Amal ministers.
“I cannot bear to see crucial decisions of this magnitude passed without the presence of Shiite ministers,” Makki emphasised.
Following a recent session chaired by President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced that the Lebanese Army has been tasked with drafting a comprehensive plan to bring all arms under state control. The proposal is expected to be submitted to the cabinet by 31 August.
The session focused heavily—over three hours—on asserting “exclusive state control” over weapons. Salam reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, underscoring the country’s sovereign right to defend itself.
Ministers from Hezbollah and the Amal Movement—Rakan Nasreddine and Tamara Zein—walked out of the session in protest, as reported by Al Mayadeen. Hezbollah swiftly denounced the cabinet’s decision as a “grave sin” that undermines Lebanon’s sovereignty and bolsters Israeli‑US aggression. The party argued that the Resistance’s weapons remain vital to safeguarding the nation and securing the liberation of occupied territory.
Hezbollah also claimed that the decision was influenced by pressure from U.S. envoy Tom Barrack, a point acknowledged by Prime Minister Salam during the meeting.
Looking ahead, the coming weeks will test Lebanon's political factions as they attempt to navigate this sensitive issue—balancing internal unity, national defence needs, and external demands. (PW)
Source: Al Mayadeen