Aoun Holds Positive, Candid Meeting with Raad

President Joseph Aoun met Thursday with MP Mohammad Raad, the head of Hezbollah’s Loyalty to the Resistance parliamentary bloc, to address mounting pressure—both domestic and international—regarding Hezbollah’s weapons arsenal. The meeting, described by Hezbollah-aligned outlet al-Ahed as a “frank” discussion, comes just days ahead of a pivotal cabinet session set for Tuesday. The topic at hand: ensuring that only state institutions retain control over arms within Lebanon’s borders.

Push for State Monopoly on Weapons

In a speech commemorating Army Day, President Aoun emphasized that Lebanon is committed to asserting full authority over its national territory. He stated that this would require “the removal of weapons from all armed groups, including Hezbollah,” and the transfer of those arms to the Lebanese Army. This position aligns with longstanding U.S. demands and broader international expectations that non-state actors be disarmed to stabilize Lebanon’s political and security environment.

Aoun called on Lebanon’s political leaders to “seize this historic opportunity” by backing the army and security forces as the sole armed entities in the country. Such a move, he argued, would restore global confidence in Lebanon’s sovereignty and governance.

Hezbollah Pushes Back Against U.S. Pressure

The day before the president’s address, Hezbollah’s deputy chief Sheikh Naim Qassem strongly rejected calls for disarmament. He framed the initiative as serving Israeli interests and accused U.S. envoy Tom Barrack of using “intimidation and threats” in an effort to bolster Israel’s position in the region.

Hezbollah, widely regarded as Lebanon’s most powerful armed group, has historically resisted disarmament efforts, claiming its arms are essential for defending the country against Israeli aggression. The group’s leadership remains defiant despite increasing diplomatic pressure from Western nations.

Government Proposes Gradual Disarmament Framework

In response to U.S. suggestions, Lebanon has presented revisions to proposals concerning Hezbollah’s disarmament. Aoun confirmed that a formal plan will be discussed during Tuesday’s cabinet session. This plan is expected to include a proposed timeline for implementing the state’s monopoly on armed force.

In addition to the disarmament issue, Aoun reiterated broader demands during his speech, including the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory, the release of Lebanese detainees, and an immediate halt to ongoing Israeli military operations.

Strategic Implications Ahead

The outcome of Tuesday’s cabinet meeting could have far-reaching implications for Lebanon’s internal power balance and its relationships with regional and global powers. While Aoun’s rhetoric marks a bold assertion of state authority, translating it into political consensus and tangible action will be a major challenge—particularly in a country where Hezbollah maintains considerable influence across both military and political spheres.

The coming days are likely to test Lebanon’s resolve as it seeks to reconcile domestic stability with international expectations for disarmament and reform.