President Declares Lebanon’s Determination to Disarm Hezbollah

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed on Thursday that the state remains resolute in its mission to disarm Hezbollah and restore full governmental authority across the nation. His remarks came just one day after Hezbollah’s leader accused those advocating disarmament of serving Israeli interests.

Speaking at a ceremony to mark Army Day, President Aoun stressed the need for national unity under a singular chain of command.

“Lebanon is committed to extending the authority of the state over the entirety of its territory,” he declared.

“This includes the removal of weapons from all armed groups — including Hezbollah — and the transfer of such arms to the Lebanese Army.”

Timeline of Statements

Core Demands from the Lebanese State

President Aoun’s position reflects a broader national and international call for the monopoly of armed power to rest solely with the state. The outlined demands include:

• Full extension of state authority over Lebanese territory
• Disarmament of all non-state military actors
• Transfer of arms to the Lebanese Armed Forces

This marks a significant stance from the Lebanese leadership, especially amid heightened tensions along Lebanon’s southern border and increasing domestic polarisation over Hezbollah’s military and political role.

The speech underscores an effort to reassert national sovereignty and unify Lebanon’s military authority under one institution — a message intended both for internal audiences and the international community monitoring developments in the region.