Official Lebanese source: ‘We are holding talks with Hezbollah about Day After, and all concerns are being addressed’

BEIRUT: An official Lebanese source has confirmed to Arab News that the government is in direct talks with Hezbollah about the disarmament of non-state armed groups and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory.

The source said that concerns raised by the Shiite group “are being addressed.”

“The Lebanese army is capable of fulfilling all its duties south of the Litani River,” the source said, referencing the UN Security Council resolution adopted on Thursday evening, which extended the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, or UNIFIL, until the end of 2026.

This resolution also envisions a phased withdrawal of UNIFIL forces from an area where they have served for more than four decades.

“Let Israel withdraw from southern Lebanon, and the Lebanese army will carry out its duties to the fullest extent in coordination with UNIFIL forces,” the source said. “What is required is supporting the army to increase its capabilities.”