Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun Rejects Force to Disarm Hezbollah Amid US Pressure

President Aoun's Stance on Disarmament

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun has unequivocally rejected the use of force to disarm the Iran-backed group Hezbollah, stating that 'resorting to force to implement the Lebanese government's decision to limit arms to the state is out of the question under any circumstances, and cannot take place at present.' President Aoun, who assumed office on January 9, 2025, has consistently advocated for a state monopoly on arms, describing the disarmament of Hezbollah as a 'sensitive, delicate issue' that requires careful handling to preserve national peace. His remarks were made during political meetings on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly in New York.

Context of US Engagement and Envoy's Remarks

President Aoun's statement follows recent controversial remarks and a proposal from US envoy Thomas Barrack. Barrack, an adviser to US President Donald Trump and special envoy for Syria, presented a plan in June 2025 that called for Hezbollah to fully disarm within four months. This disarmament was proposed in exchange for a halt to Israeli airstrikes and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from positions they continue to occupy in southern Lebanon. While Barrack expressed satisfaction with Lebanon's response to the proposal, calling it 'spectacular,' his earlier comments had suggested that efforts to disarm Hezbollah had been 'just talk without any actual action.'

Hezbollah's Position and Regional Dynamics

Hezbollah has maintained its stance against disarmament as long as Israeli forces remain in Lebanese territory and continue military actions. The group's deputy secretary-general, Naim Qassem, has stated that Hezbollah 'will not let anyone disarm' it, particularly while Israeli military operations persist. He also warned in August 2025 that implementing an 'American-Israeli order' to disarm could lead to 'civil war and internal strife.' A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah was established in November 2024, but tensions remain high, with ongoing Israeli airstrikes reported.

Path Forward and International Resolutions

The Lebanese government, under Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, has authorized the army to develop a plan for placing all weapons under state control. However, Hezbollah has rejected disarmament imposed by the government, suggesting it might be open to dialogue within the context of a 'national defense strategy.' President Aoun has stressed the importance of fully implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006, which calls for an end to hostilities, Israeli withdrawal, and the disarmament of Hezbollah and other armed groups. The US proposal also includes a commitment to secure $1 billion annually for 10 years to support the Lebanese army and security forces, aiming to bolster state institutions.