Tue Aug 26 15:30:42 UTC 2025: **US Envoy Announces Lebanon Plan to Disarm Hezbollah Amidst Ongoing Israeli Violations**
**Beirut, Lebanon** – A US-brokered plan aimed at disarming Hezbollah and securing a corresponding Israeli military withdrawal is set to be presented on August 31st, according to US envoy Tom Barrack. However, the initiative faces significant hurdles, including Hezbollah’s staunch refusal to disarm while Israel continues its military actions in violation of the November 2024 ceasefire agreement.
Speaking after meetings with Lebanese officials, Barrack emphasized the plan focuses on incentivizing Hezbollah to relinquish its weapons rather than military coercion. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stated Lebanon is committed to placing all weapons under state control, with the army expected to unveil a detailed plan next week.
However, Hezbollah has rejected the government’s decision to disarm, calling it a surrender to Israel and the US. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem urged officials to reverse the decision, asserting the group’s weapons are necessary to resist Israeli aggression.
Israel has signaled a willingness to scale back its military presence in southern Lebanon if Lebanese forces disarm Hezbollah. Barrack hailed this as a “historic” development.
Al Jazeera’s Ali Hashem reports Israel has actually consolidated its presence in southern Lebanon since the ceasefire, expanding its positions, raising concerns that it is seeking to solidify an “early warning system.” This expansion, along with the ceasefire’s stipulation that Hezbollah disarm only south of the Litani River, are further complications to securing an agreement.
Barrack acknowledged the economic impact on Hezbollah fighters and their families. He said Gulf states are prepared to support Lebanon’s economy to provide alternative livelihoods.
Barrack’s press conference was overshadowed by accusations of racism, with journalists criticizing his language and tone. Lebanese-British journalist Hala Jaber described his manner as that of a “19th-century colonial commissioner,” accusing him of arrogance and racism.
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