BEIRUT, LEBANON — Hezbollah has firmly rejected growing international calls for its disarmament, with its leader Naim Qassem accusing the United States of pressuring Lebanon on behalf of Israeli interests. The comments come amid heightened diplomatic tensions following a US proposal to fully disarm the group in exchange for halting Israeli military operations in Lebanon.
In a televised address marking the anniversary of senior commander Fuad Shukr’s assassination by Israel, Qassem said that any call for Hezbollah to lay down arms “is serving the Israeli project.” He directly criticised US envoy Thomas Barrack, accusing him of “intimidation and threats” aimed at weakening Hezbollah for Israel’s benefit.
Hezbollah maintains that its weapons are for national defence against Israeli aggression and not for internal conflict. Qassem said the issue of arms is a “purely Lebanese internal matter,” and reiterated that the group would “not submit to Israel” under pressure from the US or its allies.
The group’s stance comes amid renewed US efforts to broker a comprehensive disarmament deal. According to multiple diplomatic and government sources, the US has demanded Lebanon’s cabinet formally commit to disarming Hezbollah before any further negotiations on halting Israeli strikes or troop withdrawals from southern Lebanon can continue.
Under the terms of a US-brokered ceasefire agreed on November 27, 2024, Hezbollah fighters were to pull back north of the Litani River, leaving security south of the river to the Lebanese Army and UN peacekeepers. However, ambiguity persists over the group’s arsenal and facilities north of the river.
Qassem insisted that the ceasefire only applies to areas south of the Litani and dismissed attempts to link the truce to Hezbollah’s weapons. He also claimed that Israel is using the demand for disarmament as leverage to maintain its occupation of five key positions along the Lebanese border.
Despite the ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes have continued, targeting Hezbollah fighters and arms depots. The group has stated it will only consider reducing its arsenal if Israel withdraws from Lebanese territory and halts its military operations.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has called a cabinet meeting next week to discuss state sovereignty and security arrangements, including aspects of the US proposal. The outcome could determine whether talks with Washington resume or whether Lebanon risks further escalation with Israel.
