* Lebanon’s Military Completes Hezbollah Disarmament Phase
## Lebanon and Hezbollah Disarmament Efforts (as of January 12, 2026)
The situation in Lebanon regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah and the implementation of UN Resolution 1701 remains complex and largely unresolved as of January 12, 2026. While the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) have made efforts to assert control in southern Lebanon, meaningful challenges persist, including continued Israeli occupation of Lebanese territory and Hezbollah’s ongoing military presence.
## Lebanese Army Operations and Control (south of the Litani River)
The Lebanese Army declared the completion of the first phase of its plan to control territory south of the Litani River in late 2024/early 2025. The Lebanese Army continues to conduct operations to clear unexploded ordnance and search for tunnels constructed by Hezbollah. Official statements from the LAF indicate a commitment to preventing the re-establishment of armed groups’ capabilities in the region. However,complete control remains elusive due to the presence of Israeli forces and Hezbollah’s continued activity.
## Israeli Occupation and Ceasefire Violations
Despite a ceasefire agreement between hezbollah and Israel that came into affect in November 2024, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reports that Israel continues to occupy five strategic points within Lebanese territory near the border. This violates the terms of the ceasefire,which stipulated full Israeli withdrawal. UN Security Council Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, called for a cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon. Israel maintains its presence, citing concerns about Hezbollah rearmament. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign affairs consistently states its commitment to preventing Hezbollah from acquiring advanced weaponry.## Hezbollah’s Position and Disarmament
Hezbollah has refused to disarm and continues to maintain a military presence in Lebanon, particularly in the south. Reports from Al-Monitor (November 2024) indicate Hezbollah views its weapons as essential for defending Lebanon and deterring Israeli aggression. The group has not fully withdrawn its forces north of the Litani River, as mandated by the ceasefire agreement.
## International Involvement and Pressure
The United States continues to exert significant pressure on the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah. The U.S. State Department views Hezbollah as a terrorist organization and a destabilizing force in the region. France is also involved in efforts to promote stability in Lebanon and has supported the LAF’s efforts to assert control. The French ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs has consistently called for the implementation of Resolution 1701. A committee comprising representatives from the United States, France, Lebanon, Israel, and the United Nations is tasked with monitoring the ceasefire, but its effectiveness has been limited.
## Recent Developments (as of January 12, 2026)
As of January 12, 2026, there have been no major breakthroughs in the disarmament process. Reuters reports (January 10, 2026) that sporadic clashes continue to occur between Hezbollah and Israeli forces along the border, raising concerns about a potential escalation. The Lebanese government, facing internal political divisions and economic challenges, has struggled to implement a complete disarmament strategy.Army Commander Rodolphe Haykal continues to provide updates to the government on the progress of LAF operations.