Beirut: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun declared that all weapons in the country would be brought under state control, ensuring no security disturbances occur during the process. This announcement was made in a statement from his media office following a meeting in Beirut with a delegation from the Middle East Institute, led by retired US General Joseph Votel.

According to Anadolu Agency, Aoun emphasized that the decision to bring all weapons under state control is firm and enjoys significant support from the Lebanese populace and friendly nations. The president assured that the withdrawal of weapons would not disrupt national security, as it would be executed through dialogue with relevant parties. He highlighted the Lebanese army's urgent need for military assistance and appealed to the United States for support to help Lebanon achieve stability.

Last week, President Aoun suggested in an interview that Hezbollah members could integrate into the Lebanese army, undergoing necessary training. However, Hezbollah's Secretary-General Naim Qassem firmly opposed any disarmament of the group, insisting that the idea should be dismissed.

In southern Lebanon, Aoun affirmed the Lebanese army's compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which mandates a cessation of hostilities between Lebanon and Israel and the establishment of a weapons-free zone in southern Lebanon, except for the Lebanese army and UNIFIL. Aoun criticized Israel's continued presence at border outposts in southern Lebanon and urged the US to pressure Israel for withdrawal.

The Lebanese government has reported numerous Israeli violations of the truce, resulting in casualties and injuries. A fragile ceasefire has been maintained since November, following intense cross-border warfare between Israel and Hezbollah.

Regarding the Lebanon-Syria border, Aoun expressed vigilance over tensions and confirmed the Lebanese army's presence to prevent smuggling and regulate movement. He reiterated Lebanon's commitment to resettling displaced Syrians, stressing that the country cannot accommodate them. On Monday, Lebanon announced the formation of joint committees with Syria to resolve outstanding issues. The complex Lebanon-Syria border, with its six official crossings, has been a focal point since Syria's new leadership prioritized border control after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The need for cooperation was underscored by a border incident in March where Syria accused Hezbollah of kidnapping and killing three soldiers, a claim Hezbollah denied.