Lebanon is set to begin disarming armed Palestinian factions in refugee camps next month, signaling an effort to centralize authority and prepare for the larger challenge of curbing Hezbollah’s military power. This initiative comes as the Lebanese state seeks to establish control in a context where various armed groups have historically undermined its authority.
Lebanon Takes Steps to Disarm Palestinian Factions Amid Regional Shifts
Lebanon Takes Steps to Disarm Palestinian Factions Amid Regional Shifts
Lebanon's government aims to regain control over armed groups following recent conflicts and weakened Iranian influence on militias.
Lebanon’s prime minister’s spokesperson confirmed that the disarmament of Palestinian factions will commence in June, marking a significant step towards the goal of consolidating all weaponry under state control. "This is a test," stated Mohanad Hage Ali, a fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Center, adding that success in this endeavor could pave the way for further disarmament processes targeting Hezbollah.
Historically, the Lebanese state and military have faced marginalization when it comes to security matters, primarily overshadowed by powerful armed groups. Hezbollah, in particular, has maintained significant influence, especially in the southern regions of Lebanon, wielding military capabilities that far exceed those of the state’s armed forces.
The Palestinian armed factions hold considerable power within Lebanon’s densely populated and economically disadvantaged refugee camps, which the Lebanese army does not patrol. Nevertheless, the recent military tensions experienced with Israel have notably weakened Iranian-backed militias in the region, including both Hezbollah and Hamas. In the aftermath of these conflicts, Lebanon’s new government has recognized the necessity to diminish Hezbollah's long-term dominance and restore its own authority over the nation.
Historically, the Lebanese state and military have faced marginalization when it comes to security matters, primarily overshadowed by powerful armed groups. Hezbollah, in particular, has maintained significant influence, especially in the southern regions of Lebanon, wielding military capabilities that far exceed those of the state’s armed forces.
The Palestinian armed factions hold considerable power within Lebanon’s densely populated and economically disadvantaged refugee camps, which the Lebanese army does not patrol. Nevertheless, the recent military tensions experienced with Israel have notably weakened Iranian-backed militias in the region, including both Hezbollah and Hamas. In the aftermath of these conflicts, Lebanon’s new government has recognized the necessity to diminish Hezbollah's long-term dominance and restore its own authority over the nation.
