Lebanon’s PM Bans Hezbollah’s Military Activities
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced a prohibition on the military endeavors of Hezbollah shortly after Israel retaliated against the Iran-affiliated group’s missile and drone attack with air strikes in southern Beirut.
Salam stated, “We impose a ban on Hezbollah’s military actions and confine its role to the political domain.” He emphasized that any military operations launched from Lebanon outside recognized institutions would be rejected.
Response to Recent Attacks
The Prime Minister declared all of Hezbollah’s military operations as “illegal” and called for security forces to thwart any attacks originating from Lebanese territory. He reiterated Lebanon’s commitment to halt hostilities and resume negotiations.
Earlier, Hezbollah claimed that its attack on an Israeli military facility near Haifa was a response to the killing of Iranian leader Ali Khamenei, asserting it was a defense of Lebanon against ongoing Israeli aggression. In retaliation, Israel bombarded southern Lebanon and Beirut, resulting in over 30 fatalities and numerous injuries, according to the National News Agency.
Israel’s Targeted Strikes
Israel identified Hussein Makled, leader of Hezbollah’s intelligence unit, as a casualty in its missile strikes, accusing him of coordinating intelligence on Israeli forces and planning attacks. The Israeli military confirmed it would continue operations against Hezbollah.
Hezbollah’s Reaction
In reaction to Salam’s announcement, Hezbollah deemed the ban as unwarranted, attributing it to the government’s inability to confront Israeli aggression. They stated the government’s decision making on war and peace should not target Lebanese citizens resisting occupation.
Disarmament Challenges
Hezbollah has faced increased pressure to disarm, especially post-2024 conflicts that diminished its leadership. Despite the Lebanese government’s agreement to disarm the group under U.S. influence, Hezbollah refuted this, claiming disarmament only applies south of the Litani River—a stance that complicates the situation further.
Humanitarian Concerns and Travel Advisories
The escalating conflict threatens further destabilization in Lebanon, which is already grappling with economic and political crises. Salam labeled Hezbollah’s actions as reckless, heightening Israel’s justification for continued aggression.
The U.S. embassy in Beirut advised American citizens against travel to Lebanon and urged those present to leave immediately due to the uncertain security climate.
