jasdooit

France has acknowledged Lebanon’s declaration that the initial stage of the military’s strategy to disband Hezbollah in southern Lebanon has been finished.

On Thursday, following the army’s update to the cabinet regarding advancements in the disarmament initiative, Information Minister Paul Morcos stated that the government highlighted the importance of continuing the plan “as swiftly as possible.”

He mentioned that a proposal regarding the disarmament north of the Litani will be submitted to the cabinet in February.

“This phase represents a major advancement in the restoration of the Lebanese State’s sovereignty across its entire territory and demonstrates the Lebanese authorities’ adherence to their commitments,” stated the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs in a press release.

France urged the Lebanese government to proceed with the second stage of the initiative and appealed to Israel to show restraint and avoid any actions that might provoke a worsening of the situation.

The Lebanese military stated it had “completed the goals of the initial phase” of its operation, which focused on the region south of the Litani River, with plans to expand it throughout the nation.

In a statement, it mentioned “the exception of territory and positions still under Israeli control” close to the border.

Faced with significant U.S. pressure and concerns over potential broader Israeli military actions, Lebanon has agreed to dismantle Hezbollah, an organization that was significantly weakened following over a year of conflict, including two months of intense warfare that concluded with a ceasefire in November 2024.

Although a ceasefire is in place, Israel continues to conduct regular attacks in Lebanon, typically claiming they are aimed at Hezbollah locations and personnel, and has kept forces stationed in five southern Lebanese regions it considers “strategic,” alleging the group is rebuilding its arms.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Thursday, in reaction to a statement from the Lebanese army, that the ceasefire “clearly indicates that Hezbollah must be completely disarmed.” It also noted that the actions taken by the Lebanese government and its military forces represent “a promising start, but they are not yet adequate.”

The French foreign ministry stated in its declaration that France continues to back the Lebanese Armed Forces and is open to arranging an international gathering to assist the Lebanese military.

The army’s second phase involves securing the remaining southern part of the country up to the Awali river, close to Sidon.

President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri stated on Thursday their “complete backing” for the army’s declaration, with Aoun calling on the global community to aid Lebanon in executing the ceasefire agreement and accelerate assistance to the Lebanese military.

Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the U.N. special envoy for Lebanon, stated on X that the army’s declaration marked “clear advancement.”