Story perspectives

Hezbollah Vows to Keep Weapons Amid Disarmament Debate

12/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

Hezbollah's Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem said Hezbollah will maintain its weapons, framing disarmament as a tactic by United States and Israel to undermine Lebanon's sovereignty.
He warned that surrender would erase Lebanon's existence and history.
Lebanon's Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji faced backlash for blaming Hezbollah and Iran for instability.
Critics say Hezbollah arose in response to Israeli occupation, while activists warn disarmament without addressing occupation would leave Lebanon vulnerable.

History

Historical Context

Hezbollah was formed in 1982 by Lebanese clerics in response to the Israeli invasion of Lebanon, which resulted in over 17,000 civilian deaths. The group, backed by Iran, aimed to resist foreign occupation and has since evolved into a significant political force. Today, Hezbollah's leadership views disarmament as a threat to Lebanon's sovereignty, reflecting ongoing tensions rooted in historical grievances against Israel and the U.S.

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Story summary

Hezbollah's Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem said Hezbollah will maintain its weapons, framing disarmament as a tactic by United States and Israel to undermine Lebanon's sovereignty.
He warned that surrender would erase Lebanon's existence and history.
Lebanon's Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji faced backlash for blaming Hezbollah and Iran for instability.
Critics say Hezbollah arose in response to Israeli occupation, while activists warn disarmament without addressing occupation would leave Lebanon vulnerable.

1 / 2