Lebanon’s military is urgently working to meet a year-end deadline to disarm Hezbollah in southern Lebanon under a ceasefire deal with Israel. The operation marks a dramatic shift in Lebanon’s internal power dynamics, as the army takes on a role that would have been unthinkable during Hezbollah’s peak influence.
Two sources told Reuters that the army has blown up so many Hezbollah weapons caches that it has run out of explosives, forcing troops to seal off sites instead of destroying them until new U.S. supplies arrive.
Why It Matters
This campaign could redefine Lebanon’s sovereignty and reshape the balance between state and militia power. Hezbollah’s disarmament is a key demand from Washington and Israel, and its success could bring stability or trigger fresh unrest.
However, moving beyond the south risks sectarian tensions and could fracture the army, reviving memories of Lebanon’s civil war.
Lebanese Army: Leading disarmament under U.S. and international pressure, but facing shortages of explosives and political risks.
Hezbollah: Weakened by Israel’s war last year but still influential, especially in the north and Bekaa Valley, where disarmament remains uncertain.
United States: Providing millions in aid and demolition equipment to “degrade Hezbollah.”
Israel: Supplying intelligence through the truce mechanism but complicating operations with cross-border fire incidents.
UNIFIL: Supporting inspection and clearance operations in southern Lebanon.
Current Progress
Nine arms caches and dozens of tunnels have been uncovered in the south.
The army expects to complete southern operations by December.
Explosives depleted by June, with six soldiers killed during dismantling efforts.
$14 million in new U.S. demolition aid is expected, though delivery may take months.
Challenges Ahead
Hezbollah has agreed to ceasefire terms in the south but refuses to disarm elsewhere without a political deal.
Lebanese officials fear civil strife if the army expands disarmament north without consensus.
Israeli air strikes and occupation of five border hilltops threaten to delay progress.
What’s Next
The U.S. and allies are pressing Beirut to meet the year-end target and expand efforts beyond the south in 2026. But Hezbollah’s warning against confronting the Shi’ite community, and ongoing Israeli pressure, mean Lebanon’s army must walk a political and military tightrope.
As one Lebanese official put it: “The army if betting on time.”
With information from Reuters.