Palestinian President Abbas Visits Lebanon Amid Disarmament Push

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas visited Lebanon for the first time in eight years to discuss key issues including the disarmament of Palestinian militias in Lebanese refugee camps, alongside Lebanese officials including Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and President Joseph Aoun. Abbas highlighted the ongoing Israeli violence and blockade affecting Palestinians and praised Lebanon's support for the Palestinian cause and regional stability, reaffirming respect for Lebanon's sovereignty and the authority of its state and army over refugee camps. The Lebanese government, under President Aoun, is pushing to bring all weapons, including those of Palestinian factions like Hamas and Fatah, under state control to address security concerns and reduce militant activities that threaten Israel and Lebanese stability. Palestinian camps, often controlled by various factions, have been sources of internal violence and lawlessness, complicating Lebanon’s national security. Abbas and Lebanese authorities agreed to establish a joint committee to enhance bilateral relations and improve conditions for Palestinians in Lebanon, emphasizing the temporary status of Palestinian refugees pending their right of return. The visit underscores ongoing efforts to balance Palestinian self-governance in Lebanon with Lebanese state sovereignty and regional peace initiatives.