Lebanon is preparing to present a historic plan on August 31 to persuade Hezbollah to give up its weapons, according to US envoy Thomas Barrack. The initiative comes after discussions with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and follows months of international pressure to place all arms under state control. Unlike previous attempts, the plan will not involve military force but instead focus on dialogue and economic alternatives.

Barrack explained that Lebanon's army and government do not intend to fight Hezbollah but rather convince its fighters to disarm peacefully. The cabinet recently directed the army to draft a strategy that would secure a state monopoly on weapons, a decision strongly opposed by Hezbollah. Despite the group's resistance, Israel signaled readiness to scale back its presence in southern Lebanon if Hezbollah begins the disarmament process.

The plan gained momentum after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Barrack that Israel had no interest in occupying Lebanon. Instead, Israel is prepared to withdraw once a credible disarmament framework is in place. This marked shift is being described as a "historic opportunity" for peace along the Lebanon-Israel border.

Hezbollah leaders, however, remain defiant. Deputy chief Naim Qassem criticized the government's proposal, saying the group would only consider a national defense dialogue after Israel fully implements the November 27 ceasefire. He rejected any step-by-step deal that pairs Israeli withdrawal with Hezbollah disarmament.

Economic concerns lie at the heart of the disarmament debate. With about 40,000 Hezbollah members and families funded by Iran, ending this payroll system requires alternatives. Barrack emphasized that disarmament must be matched with new jobs and opportunities.

To support this transition, Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia and Qatar are reportedly preparing economic aid packages. Plans are underway to create a regional "economic forum" that would provide sustainable livelihoods in southern Lebanon. By linking security with economic stability, international backers hope to give Lebanon its best chance yet at reclaiming full state sovereignty.

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