Achieving the Objectives of the First Phase of the Army’s Disarmament Plan

The Lebanese Army Command – Directorate of Orientation issued the following statement:

Pursuant to the decision of the Lebanese Council of Ministers issued on 5 August 2025, the Army affirms its full commitment to assuming and exercising the exclusive responsibility for maintaining security and stability in Lebanon, in coordination with the other security agencies, particularly in the South Litani Sector. This commitment is in fulfillment of its duties as stipulated in the Lebanese Constitution and the applicable laws and regulations, and in accordance with the decisions of the political authority and its obligations arising from relevant international resolutions. This aims to ensure the restoration of security and stability along the southern border and to definitively prevent its use as a launching ground for any military activities, within the framework of implementing the Lebanese State’s decision to extend its authority exclusively through its own forces over the entirety of Lebanese territory.

In this context, the Army affirms that its plan to restrict weapons has entered an advanced stage, following the effective and tangible achievement of the objectives of the first phase on the ground. This phase focused on expanding the Army’s operational presence, securing vital areas, and extending operational control over the territories that have come under its authority in the South Litani Sector, with the exception of lands and sites that remain under Israeli occupation.

The Army notes that operations in the sector are still ongoing until the clearance of unexploded ordnance and tunnels is completed, in addition to addressing Requests for Action (RFAs), in order to consolidate control and prevent armed groups from irreversibly rebuilding their capabilities.

The Army Command will also conduct a comprehensive overall assessment of the first phase of the "Nation Shield" plan, which will serve as the basis for determining the course of the subsequent phases of the plan.

In this context, the Army points out that the continued Israeli attacks on Lebanese territory and the occupation of several sites within it, along with the establishment of buffer zones that restrict access to certain areas, as well as the ongoing daily violations of the Ceasefire Agreement issued on 27 November 2024, all negatively affect the completion of the required tasks—particularly in the vicinity of these areas—and, consequently, hinder the extension of the Lebanese state’s authority and the restriction of weapons exclusively to its armed forces.

Additionally, the delayed delivery of promised military capabilities to the Army constitutes a significant factor affecting the pace of mission implementation.

Taken together, these factors require urgent and serious attention, as they constitute essential elements for enabling the Army to complete its tasks according to the established plan, in a responsible, gradual, and coordinated manner, consistent with the requirements of the highest national interest, and safeguarding sovereignty and stability.

The Army also affirms the continuation of coordination and joint work with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and with the ceasefire monitoring mechanism (the Mechanism), contributing to the reinforcement of stability in the South Litani Sector. In this context, the Army expresses its gratitude to the countries participating in UNIFIL and appreciation for the work of the American and French teams within the Mechanism.

In conclusion, the Army values the awareness and constructive cooperation of the citizens in the south, as their commitment and dedication to security and stability have been a key factor in the successful implementation of the first phase. It affirms that this cooperation reflects the deep mutual trust between the citizens and the military institution.

The Army Command also extends its sincere appreciation to the soldiers for their exceptional efforts and for the sincere sacrifices and responsible perseverance they have shown. Their steadfast determination and strong belief in their national duty have been decisive factors in accomplishing the missions entrusted to them. These achievements were realized despite the harsh working conditions and the severe dangers surrounding their tasks, whether from mines and explosives in their areas of operation or from Israeli attacks targeting their deployment zones.