Thu Dec 25 14:04:33 UTC 2025: Summary:
Under heavy U.S. pressure and facing the threat of expanded Israeli strikes, Lebanon has committed to disarming Hezbollah, starting in the south. This commitment comes amidst escalating tensions, despite a November 2024 ceasefire. Recent Israeli strikes have resulted in casualties, including civilians and a member of Lebanon’s General Security agency. Lebanon’s army chief stated that the first phase of the disarmament plan is nearing completion, aiming to disarm Hezbollah south of the Litani River by the end of the year. Over 340 people in Lebanon have been killed by Israeli fire since the ceasefire.
News Article:
Lebanon Agrees to Disarm Hezbollah Amidst Escalating Tensions with Israel
Beirut, Lebanon – December 25, 2025 – Facing mounting pressure from the United States and the looming threat of expanded Israeli military action, Lebanon has pledged to disarm the militant group Hezbollah, beginning in the southern region of the country. The move comes despite a ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024, intended to halt over a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Tensions remain high, with Israel continuing to conduct strikes within Lebanon. An Israeli strike on Thursday reportedly killed two people in the Hermel district, near the Syrian border. Earlier this week, another strike resulted in the death of a member of Lebanon’s General Security agency, highlighting the risk to civilians caught in the crossfire.
Lebanon’s army chief, Rodolphe Haykal, announced on Tuesday that the army is nearing completion of the first phase of its plan to disarm Hezbollah south of the Litani River, a region approximately 30 kilometers from the Israeli border.
The situation remains precarious, with over 340 lives lost in Lebanon due to Israeli fire since the supposed ceasefire. The commitment to disarm Hezbollah is seen as a critical step towards de-escalating the conflict and preventing further bloodshed, but its implementation faces significant challenges.
Analysts suggest the success of the disarmament plan hinges on the extent of U.S. support and the willingness of all parties to adhere to the terms of the agreement. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Lebanon can successfully navigate this complex and volatile situation.