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Hezbollah refuses disarmament, declaring it will not give up its weapons while Israeli troops continue to occupy parts of southern Lebanon and conduct airstrikes in the region.
The statement came from Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem on April 18, 2025, during a televised speech. It followed Israeli drone strikes that killed two Hezbollah members earlier that day.
Hezbollah’s Message: Disarmament Means Defeat
Qassem made it clear: Hezbollah refuses disarmament while Israel maintains a military presence and violates Lebanese airspace.
“We will not let anyone disarm Hezbollah or disarm the resistance,” he said.
He framed the group’s weapons as vital to Lebanon’s “life and freedom,” calling any push to disarm now an act of surrender.
Takeaway: For Hezbollah, keeping its arms is tied to survival — and surrender is not an option.
Ceasefire Terms — and the Fallout
A U.S.-brokered ceasefire in November 2024 ended a 14-month war. Under the deal:
- Hezbollah was to move fighters north of the Litani River
- The Lebanese Army and UN peacekeepers would take control of the south
- Israel was to fully withdraw
But Israel retains five outposts in the south, citing Hezbollah activity. Since the ceasefire, over 50 Hezbollah fighters have been killed in targeted strikes.
Takeaway: Each side accuses the other of violations — keeping the truce fragile.
Lebanon’s Balancing Act
President Joseph Aoun says Lebanon must restore a state monopoly on weapons, but only through peaceful dialogue.
His plan includes:
- Integrating Hezbollah fighters individually into the Lebanese Army
- Negotiating the transfer of advanced weapons after a full Israeli withdrawal
Takeaway: Lebanon wants unity, not a domestic conflict — and it’s walking a tightrope to get there.
Global Pressure Is Mounting
The United States continues to press for action. Deputy Special Envoy Morgan Ortagus, during a recent Beirut visit, called for Lebanon to disarm militias and assert national control.
Still, Hezbollah refuses disarmament, insisting that talks can only begin once Israel leaves Lebanese territory and halts its military actions.
Takeaway: Foreign pressure won’t move Hezbollah — withdrawal comes first.
What’s at Stake
- 4,000+ Lebanese dead
- $11 billion in damages
- South Lebanon still in ruins
Hezbollah refuses disarmament, and unless Israel pulls back, the group says its weapons stay — along with the risk of a renewed war.
Bottom Line: No withdrawal, no disarmament. The ceasefire may hold for now, but the tension is far from over.
