Beirut: The UN special coordinator for Lebanon has highlighted the Lebanese army's confirmation of operational control south of the Litani River as a significant step forward. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized that while progress has been made, ongoing efforts are necessary to complete the process.

According to Anadolu Agency - English, Hennis-Plasschaert recognized this development as a pivotal milestone but warned that the journey is not yet over. She praised the Lebanese army's commitment on the social media platform X, noting that the milestone underscores the importance of the mechanism established by the arrangement from November 24.

On Thursday, the Lebanese army announced that it has advanced its plan to ensure weapons are held solely by the state, marking the completion of its first phase. The army expressed concern over Israeli attacks and the continued occupation of Lebanese positions, which are hindering the plan's implementation.

The Lebanese army's strategy, initiated by a government decision on August 5, 2025, aims to centralize arms under state control, including those held by Hezbollah. This plan is being executed in five phases, with a strong commitment to maintaining security and stability, particularly in the region south of the Litani River.

The ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, effective since November 2024, concluded over a year of cross-border violence linked to the conflict in Gaza. The hostilities resulted in over 4,000 deaths and 17,000 injuries. Despite the ceasefire terms requiring an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon by January, Israel has only partially retreated, maintaining a military presence at five border outposts.