Lebanese government plans military recruitment for southern deployment

The Lebanese cabinet, led by Prime Minister Najib Mikati, will convene in Beirut on Wednesday to discuss significant national security measures, including a potential recruitment drive for 1,500 soldiers to be deployed to southern Lebanon. 

This initiative comes amidst heightened tensions along the border with Israel and increased regional pressure to establish peace in the area.

The deployment plan aligns with the directives of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which outlines a framework for stability in the region. Following a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, thousands of Lebanese soldiers are expected to move into positions in the south, replacing the Shiite militia forces that currently operate there.

Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006, seeks to establish a demilitarized zone along the Lebanon-Israel border. The resolution calls for the withdrawal of Hezbollah forces from a 30-kilometer buffer zone extending from the Litani River to the border. 

In this designated area, Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) personnel would maintain a security presence, effectively keeping Hezbollah at a distance from Israeli territory.

The second and more ambitious phase of Resolution 1701 and 1559 calls for the total disarmament of Hezbollah. This step remains a significant point of contention, as Hezbollah and its primary ally, Iran, have so far rejected any disarmament discussions. 

Despite international pressure and Lebanon’s efforts toward sovereignty in the south, the organization insists on maintaining its arms, citing the need to defend against Israeli aggression.

While the Lebanese government pushes for a more stable security environment, Hezbollah’s resistance to disarmament poses ongoing challenges. 

Both the Lebanese government and the international community face a delicate balancing act, with local and regional implications. Any move to disarm Hezbollah would require broader diplomatic efforts, given Iran’s backing and the organization’s deep-rooted influence within Lebanon.

Prime Minister Mikati’s proposed recruitment of 1,500 soldiers, if approved, could mark an initial step toward reasserting Lebanese state control in the south.