Lebanon Seeks Israeli Pullout for Hezbollah Arms Deal

Lebanese authorities have submitted a revised response to a diplomatic proposal from U.S. envoy Tom Barrack, anchoring their position on the principle of reciprocal action. According to officials familiar with the matter, the Lebanese side firmly opposes the framework outlined by the U.S. representative, which reportedly demanded the immediate surrender of Hezbollah’s weapons as a precondition for American efforts to pressure Israel into withdrawing from southern Lebanon.

Officials speaking to Al-Jadeed TV clarified that the Lebanese response introduces a model based on synchronized, incremental steps from both parties. Rather than unilateral disarmament, Beirut’s proposal sets a three-stage roadmap intended to balance mutual obligations between Lebanon and Israel.

Three-Stage Proposal Outlined by Beirut

The revised plan begins with an official announcement by the Lebanese government signaling a commitment to the eventual handover of Hezbollah’s weapons. In parallel, this initial stage is expected to trigger a limited withdrawal of Israeli forces from select points along the southern border.

In the second phase, Lebanese authorities would initiate practical preparations for the disarmament process in coordination with developments on the ground. The final stage involves the commencement of weapon handovers specifically in areas located north of the Litani River. This would only proceed once Israel has completed a full withdrawal from southern Lebanese territory, ensuring a synchronized conclusion to both sides’ responsibilities.

The proposal reflects ongoing concerns in Lebanon that unbalanced international demands could undermine national sovereignty and internal stability. Hezbollah’s arsenal has long been a contentious issue, both domestically and within the broader context of Lebanon-Israel tensions.

Coordination Among Lebanon’s Political Leadership

Political consultations on the revised framework are continuing at the highest levels. Sources who recently visited key political figures at Ain el-Tineh and the Grand Serail reported a productive meeting on Saturday between Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.

Following the session, both leaders expressed cautious optimism over the emerging consensus. According to insiders, Speaker Berri has taken on the role of intermediary, responsible for formally presenting the government’s proposed structure to Hezbollah. An official response from the group is expected within the next forty-eight hours.