How the Lebanese Army Became Lebanon’s Lifeline in a Pivotal Crisis
In a significant development for Lebanon, the government session held on Friday revealed a complex political landscape marked by both tension and potential collaboration. The Lebanese Army has taken a pivotal stance, not by rebelling against political authority, but by addressing the ongoing abuses stemming from the current political establishment amid a backdrop of violence and destruction. This situation raises questions about the future of disarmament and the strategies surrounding national defense amidst a divided political climate.
The recent discussions saw neither the pro–Resistance faction nor the anti–Resistance faction making substantial concessions. The pro–Resistance group, which includes Hezbollah, firmly maintained its position against disarmament prior to any discussion of a defensive strategy. Conversely, the anti–Resistance faction, particularly the Lebanese Forces party, expressed significant concern over the ongoing discussions.
According to an informed source, the government statement was prepared the night before the session, with input from President Joseph Aoun and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, along with the approval of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. As these negotiations conclude, the dynamics remain heavily influenced by external parties, notably Washington, which is represented by envoy Morgan Ortagus and the commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM) set to visit Beirut later this week.
Key aspects of the upcoming meetings include:
- Brief security discussions with military and security leaders.
- Exclusion of political officials from these discussions.
Riyadh’s stance remains consistent, with envoy Yazid bin Farhan also scheduled to arrive in Beirut this week. The consensus reached prior to the cabinet session between President Aoun, Prime Minister Salam, and the Amal-Hezbollah duo is crucial, as it highlights a temporary truce in a politically charged environment.
Speaker Berri characterized the government statement positively, asserting, “Things are positive. I believe the toxic winds are beginning to dissipate.” The potential resignation threats from Hezbollah and the Amal Movement prompted fruitful negotiations with Army Commander Rodolphe Heikal and the President, leading to commitments from the government regarding national security strategy and affirming Lebanon’s right to self-defense per the UN Charter.
Reports indicate that a strategic framework has been established, encompassing five phases aimed at restricting weapons to the state. These phases are as follows:
- The Lebanese Army will conclude operations in areas south of the Litani River.
- Operations will extend to the region between the Litani and Awali Rivers.
- Focus will shift to Beirut, its suburbs, and surrounding areas.
- Attention will turn to the Bekaa Valley.
- Finally, the goal is to restrict weapons throughout all Lebanese territory.
The aforementioned source also indicated that the Shiite duo of Hezbollah and the Amal Movement warned Aoun and the Army Commander that American promises may not be fulfilled. The army’s proposed plan includes vital components aimed at halting Israeli attacks and facilitating a withdrawal plan across the country. Key elements of this plan are:
- Control over the Lebanese-Syrian border.
- Closure of illegal crossings.
- Prevention of arms and drug smuggling.
- Withdrawal of weapons from Palestinian refugee camps.
At a critical juncture, President Aoun appears to have recognized that the Lebanese Army lacks the necessary logistical capacity to execute the disarmament plan concerning the Hezbollah resistance movement. His role as the new president emphasizes the importance of maintaining civil peace and avoiding provocations with any domestic factions under all circumstances.
For its part, Hezbollah has consistently maintained that it does not seek to disrupt civil peace or instigate conflict with the Army. This ongoing dialogue and negotiation process reflects a complex interplay of local and international influences, with the future of Lebanon hanging in the balance. As various factions navigate this treacherous political terrain, the commitment to peace and security remains a paramount concern for all parties involved.
