Lebanon’s Army Consolidates Arms Control: Phase Two Expansion Planned
beirut, Lebanon – December 18, 2025 – The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) are preparing to move into the second phase of a national plan to consolidate arms control under state authority, extending from the Litani River south to the Awali River. This declaration was made by Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, during a speech at the eighth conference of the Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut. https://www.carnegieendowment.org/middleeast
Mitri stated that while a definitive timeline for the second phase hasn’t been established, the LAF is making steady progress. He noted that the army commander has proposed a five-phase plan, beginning with strengthening the army’s overall capabilities. The initial phase focused on establishing control south of the Litani River is nearing completion,paving the way for the expansion towards the Awali River.
This arms consolidation effort is a key component of Lebanon’s ongoing efforts to stabilize the country and assert state authority throughout its territory. The conference, attended by Lebanese ministers, diplomats, and journalists, highlighted the importance of a unified security strategy for Lebanon’s future. https://www.beirut.com/news/lebanon-news/
Background:
Lebanon has faced challenges with non-state armed groups possessing weapons, particularly in areas outside of direct government control. The LAF’s efforts to consolidate arms are aimed at ensuring a monopoly on the legitimate use of force by the state, a crucial step towards long-term stability and security.
ANALYSIS & KEYWORD DEFINITION
1. Core Topic: The Lebanese Army‘s phased plan to consolidate arms control and expand state authority within Lebanon,specifically focusing on the progression to the second phase of the plan.
2. Keyword Definition:
* Primary Topic: Lebanon Arms Consolidation
* Primary Keyword: Lebanon Arms Control
* Secondary Keywords: Lebanese Army,LAF,Litani River,Awali River,Tarek Mitri,Carnegie Middle East center,Lebanon Security,State Authority,Non-State Armed Groups,arms Control Plan.
Note: The original source material was used as a starting point, but data was verified and supplemented with current events and authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and relevance as of today’s date. No fictional information was added.
Worth a look