Lebanon’s Government Endorses Army’s Plan to Control Weapons
The Lebanese government has endorsed the army’s strategy to maintain control over all weapons, although it has chosen to classify specific details. Information Minister Paul Morcos confirmed that the army will deliver monthly updates to the Council of Ministers while operating within its resource constraints, reports 24brussels.
The army is set to commence implementation of the plan, initially decided on August 5, with the independence to make operational decisions. Morcos indicated that Commander Rodolphe Heikal cautioned that Israeli attacks could pose significant obstacles to its execution.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam emphasized that without security and the confiscation of illegal arms, there will be no investment or reconstruction in Lebanon. The session was notably marked by the departure of Hezbollah ministers and those from the Amal movement, who exited as the army commander began discussing the plan. Morcos characterized this walkout as significant but clarified that the government itself did not depart from the meeting.
On social media, Morcos reiterated the government’s cooperative stance regarding the army’s plan, while maintaining confidentiality over its contents and discussions. Beirut has acknowledged its objectives and preparation of the army’s directives but has condemned Israel for not taking necessary measures to uphold peace.
The Lebanese cabinet stressed that Israel’s ongoing conduct exhibits a lack of genuine commitment to the truce and actively undermines stabilization initiatives. Furthermore, the government warned that Israel’s repeated violations constitute a severe threat to regional security. They reiterated that any progress in the plan’s implementation is contingent upon Israel’s adherence, while reaffirming Lebanon’s steadfast rejection of any concessions to the Israeli government.
