Army Takes Control of Security in Hezbollah-Dominated South

The Lebanese army has announced its control over security in southern Lebanon, an area historically dominated by Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militia. This move comes amid concerns of an escalation in military actions by Israel against Hezbollah.

Background on the Security Shift

For years, international entities, particularly the United States, have pressured Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah. This initiative gained momentum following a ceasefire in November 2024, which concluded a prolonged conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The Lebanese government aims to eliminate non-state weapons in the southern region by the end of the year, particularly around the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers from the Israeli border.

Achievements and Challenges

• The Lebanese army claims to have effectively achieved initial goals of disarmament.
• Challenges remain, including unexploded ordnance and tunnels left behind.

Despite the army’s progress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled these efforts as incomplete, citing Hezbollah’s potential rearmament. Israeli officials stress that Hezbollah is attempting to recover its military capabilities with Iranian support.

Reactions to Israeli Concerns

In recent operations, Lebanese soldiers have dismantled Hezbollah’s infrastructure without facing opposition. Hezbollah asserts compliance with the ceasefire and has withdrawn fighters from contested areas, but U.S. and Israeli officials have criticized the army’s slow pace in disarmament efforts.

Israel continues to conduct attacks on alleged Hezbollah-linked targets and maintains multiple positions in southern Lebanon, asserting these actions do not violate the ceasefire agreement.

Next Steps for the Lebanese Army

The Lebanese army’s upcoming efforts will concentrate on the region between the Litani and Awali rivers, including the port city of Sidon. However, the timeline for these operations remains uncertain. Financial constraints also hinder the Lebanese military’s effectiveness.

Hezbollah’s Position and Public Sentiment

Hezbollah has signaled its unwillingness to disarm north of the Litani River and maintains a considerable presence in the Bekaa Valley and southern suburbs of Beirut. President Joseph Aoun has cautioned against using force against Hezbollah, fearing a rise in sectarian conflict.

Hezbollah retains strong backing from Lebanon’s Shia community, though some see this moment as an opportunity to address the group’s weaponry, especially following losses in the last conflict. Calls for a dialogue regarding Hezbollah’s arms have so far been dismissed.

Humanitarian Implications

In southern Lebanon, tens of thousands remain displaced, and communities are struggling to recover. International partners have tied reconstruction support to concrete actions against Hezbollah.