Geagea: Israel withdrawal hinges on Hezbollah disarmament

Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea has strongly criticized recent declarations from Hezbollah leaders, particularly their refusal to disarm while Israeli troops remain stationed in South Lebanon. Geagea expressed concern that these public statements undermine Lebanon’s credibility and tarnish its international image, especially after commitments made under a November ceasefire agreement.

Hezbollah officials, including Sheikh Naim Qassem, have maintained that disarmament is off the table until Israel fully withdraws from the region and halts what they describe as ongoing violations. In a recent televised address, Qassem questioned the idea of negotiating a national defense strategy under the pressure of active conflict and Israeli overflights, stating such conditions equate to surrender.

Ceasefire Agreement Under Scrutiny

According to the terms of the truce, Hezbollah was expected to relocate its fighters north of the Litani River and dismantle any remaining military infrastructure in southern Lebanon. In parallel, Israel was to withdraw all its forces from the area. However, Israeli troops have remained in five southern positions they deem strategic and have continued conducting airstrikes, citing Hezbollah violations of the ceasefire.

Geagea stressed that for Lebanon to move forward and rebuild the state, Hezbollah must uphold its side of the agreement. He urged the current administration to remind Hezbollah of its commitments and to reaffirm the state’s authority in national defense matters.

The prolonged hostilities with Israel have left Hezbollah significantly weakened. The group initially launched attacks in support of Hamas, but over a year of conflict, including an intense Israeli air campaign, resulted in the deaths of many of its senior commanders, including longtime leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.

Geagea emphasized that restoring Lebanon’s sovereignty and international standing requires all parties to respect the terms of the ceasefire and place national interest above partisan agendas.