Lebanon Advances Disarmament of Palestinian Factions Amid Ongoing Negotiations

Lebanon has initiated the disarmament of Palestinian factions within its refugee camps, a significant step aimed at consolidating state authority and centralizing all weaponry under the national army. This process, which commenced in August 2025, follows an agreement reached in May 2025 between Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, emphasizing the principle that only the Lebanese state should possess arms.

The disarmament officially began at Beirut's Burj al-Barajneh camp, where Lebanese troops collected surrendered armaments ranging from personal rifles to heavy machine guns. The operation has since expanded to include major camps like Ain al-Hilweh and al-Beddawi, with multiple truckloads of weapons handed over. The Ain al-Hilweh camp, being the largest and most complex, is a critical indicator of the state's ability to assert sovereignty.

This initiative is part of a broader national effort to assert control over Lebanese territory. U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack has publicly supported the process, calling it a "historic step toward unity and stability." The U.S. has been engaged in discussions regarding these disarmament plans, advocating for a balanced approach that considers both security and the rights of Palestinian refugees.

While factions aligned with the Palestinian Authority, such as Fatah, have largely complied, groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad have not yet announced their participation. These groups have expressed concerns that the demilitarization lacks proper representation without their involvement. The Lebanese-Palestinian Dialogue Committee is reportedly continuing discussions with Hamas and Islamic Jihad, with the aim of finalizing the disarmament process by the end of September.

Historically, Palestinian factions have maintained control within Lebanon's refugee camps, which have largely operated outside state jurisdiction, with the Lebanese army traditionally refraining from entering these areas. This current disarmament drive represents a significant departure from these long-standing conventions, aiming to enhance overall security and stability within Lebanon. The success of this process is viewed as a crucial test for the Lebanese government's capacity to implement its agenda and foster a more unified and secure environment for all residents.