Iran Reaffirms Support for Hezbollah Amid Lebanon Disarmament Push

Iran has strongly supported Hezbollah amid Lebanon's government plan to disarm the group by the end of 2025, asserting that Tehran does not interfere in Hezbollah's decisions but backs them from afar. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that disarmament attempts have been ongoing but Hezbollah's military strength and resilience remain intact despite setbacks during last year's conflict with Israel. Hezbollah has rejected the Lebanese government's disarmament proposal, calling it a politically motivated move aligned with Israeli and U.S. pressures, and vowed to ignore the decision, labeling it a 'gift' to Israel that undermines Lebanon's defense. Key Lebanese Shia figures, including Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and the Amal Movement, have publicly reaffirmed their support for Hezbollah, highlighting the group's significant influence within Lebanon. The Lebanese government, under Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, is proceeding with plans for the Lebanese Armed Forces to enforce the state's monopoly on weapons, a move Hezbollah warns could provoke instability or civil unrest. The dispute reflects broader regional tensions involving Iran's backing of Hezbollah and international efforts to limit the group's military capabilities.