Lebanese President Warns Against Forceful Hezbollah Disarmament Amid Regional Diplomacy

The ongoing tension in Lebanon centers on the disarmament of Hezbollah, a key condition in the ceasefire agreements following recent conflicts with Israel. US envoy Tom Barak has pressured Lebanese officials to negotiate a timetable for Hezbollah's disarmament or risk unilateral Israeli action, but Lebanese President Joseph Aoun insists that forceful disarmament is impossible and warns it could provoke civil war. Despite a ceasefire signed in November 2024, Hezbollah continues to resist disarmament, particularly in northern Lebanon, with its leader Naim Qassem asserting the group's right to bear arms as essential for defending Lebanon. Israel remains vigilant, conducting strikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, signaling a potential resumption of hostilities if disarmament efforts stall. International diplomats are engaged in discussions to resolve the crisis, but there is skepticism about Lebanon's commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the ceasefire. The dispute highlights the fragile peace and complex regional dynamics involving Hezbollah, Lebanon, Israel, and international actors.