Lebanese Army Completes Phase 1 Disarmament South of Litani River in 2026

The state's grip on southern Lebanon is tightening, but the shadows of non-state actors remain. Lebanese army officials announced Thursday the completion of their first phase to bring all non-state weaponry under control between the Litani river and the Israeli border.

Military Secures State Monopoly on Arms South of Litani

According to a statement from the military, the army has established a state monopoly on arms in the south in an "effective and tangible way." This achievement marks the end of the first part of a multi-phase plan originally slated for completion by late 2025. The military now controls the strategic zone approximately 30km from the border, with the exception of specific points still occupied by Israel.

A Lebanese security source told Reuters that the move signals that no group will be able to launch attacks from southern Lebanon moving forward. Army Commander Rodolphe Haykal is expected to brief the cabinet today on transitioning to Phase 2, which involves a 40km stretch running north toward the Awali river.

Israel Questions Progress Amid Ceasefire Violations

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Despite the army's progress, tension remains high. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar praised the effort but called it "far from sufficient," alleging that Hezbollah is rebuilding its military capabilities faster than they are being dismantled.

However, UNIFIL has reported "no evidence" of such reconstruction. Conversely, the UN mission has documented over 10,000 ceasefire violations by Israel—including 7,500 in the airspace—since the November 2024 truce. These strikes have reportedly killed more than 300 people in Lebanon, including at least 127 civilians.

The Looming Standoff North of the Litani

While Hezbollah did not block the army's movement during Phase 1, Al Jazeera reports they are now "refusing to cooperate" with plans for Phase 2 north of the Litani river. This resistance could derail the US-brokered deal, as Israel threatens to expand daily strikes if the Lebanese government doesn't rein in the group.