Ankara: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that the decision to restrict weapons to state control is 'irreversible and is being implemented carefully in a manner that preserves Lebanon's unity and prevents harm to civil peace.' His remarks were made during a meeting with journalists on the first day of his visit to Bahrain.

According to Anadolu Agency, Aoun's statement followed his delivery of Beirut's response to a US proposal concerning the disarmament of Hezbollah and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. Despite Lebanon's efforts to comply with international agreements, Aoun highlighted Israel's ongoing aggression and its failure to adhere to the November 2024 agreement, which called for a cessation of hostilities.

Aoun emphasized the need for guarantees in any solution, noting that Israel has not fully complied with Resolution 1701, while Lebanon has deployed its army south of the Litani River. The continued Israeli military presence on five strategic hills hinders the full deployment of Lebanese forces. Aoun announced plans to increase the number of Lebanese army personnel in the south to 10,000 by year's end, emphasizing the state's commitment to disarmament and peace.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated into full-scale warfare in September 2024, with a ceasefire reached in November. However, Israeli forces continue to conduct attacks under the pretext of targeting Hezbollah, with Lebanese authorities reporting nearly 3,000 violations of the truce, resulting in significant casualties.

Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israel has yet to withdraw from southern Lebanon, maintaining a presence at five border outposts. US envoy Tom Barrack acknowledged the challenges, stating that the ceasefire agreement 'didn't work.'