Hezbollah insists on Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territory as a precondition for disarmament discussions. Supporters protested in Beirut against disarmament ahead of a cabinet meeting, fearing impacts on political standing and security. Hezbollah emerged weakened from a prior war, losing leadership and support. Talks are ongoing between the US and Lebanon regarding a disarmament roadmap, but Lebanon has not acted against Hezbollah. The political leadership is pushing towards disarmament, even suggesting it may need to be enforced to consolidate weapons under the Lebanese armed forces.
Hezbollah has made its position clear: it will not disarm because to do so would serve Israel's interests, not Lebanon's sovereignty.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has told the country's leadership that the group feels blackmailed that if they don't disarm, they will not be given funds for reconstruction.
Ahead of Tuesday's cabinet meeting, Hezbollah reiterated its demand that the issues of Israel's withdrawal from Lebanese territory and the release of Lebanese prisoners take place before any discussion on disarmament.
If there is a cost to be able to centralise the weapons with the Lebanese armed forces, [it may be] better like that.
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