Washington Questions Lebanese Army’s Efficacy Against Hezbollah as Lebanon Marks 82nd Independence Day
On Saturday, November 22, 2025, Lebanon marked its 82nd Independence Day under the shadow of geopolitical tension and renewed scrutiny regarding the country's internal security dynamics. While the nation observed the solemn occasion with traditional ceremonies, including the Army Commander laying a wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument, the festive atmosphere was tempered by stern warnings from Washington regarding the resurgence of Hezbollah and the challenges facing the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
According to a report cited by Al Joumhouria, a United States official expressed significant skepticism regarding the current security landscape in Lebanon. The official suggested that while the Lebanese Army is engaged in operations to disarm Hezbollah, the military "may not be doing enough" to fully address the threat. The report highlights Washington's growing concern that the current operational tempo is insufficient to prevent the paramilitary group from regaining its foothold in the region.
Speaking to Al-Hadath, the unnamed US official provided a nuanced assessment of the LAF’s performance. He acknowledged that the Army is indeed conducting disarmament operations but emphasized that the military institution "does not possess significant capabilities" to fully neutralize the threat. This lack of capacity, according to the official, is contributing to a situation where Hezbollah is being "re-empowered." The official further disclosed that the group has been witnessed receiving fresh shipments of weaponry from Iran in recent periods, complicating efforts to stabilize the country.
The US administration remains actively involved in managing the delicate situation. The official noted that Washington is facilitating communications between Lebanon and Israel through the "Quintet Committee," aiming to prevent an escalation of conflict. "We are following up with the Lebanese Army on information exchange to disarm Hezbollah," the official stated, underscoring the continued US oversight of the security arrangements.
In contrast to the American critique regarding capabilities, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) issued a statement emphasizing partnership. Marking the independence anniversary, UNIFIL reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the LAF as a "partner in strengthening stability in the south." The peacekeeping force described the full redeployment of the Army across southern regions as a "fundamental step to extending state authority," signaling international support for the military’s expansion despite the acknowledged challenges.
Domestically, the political rhetoric reflected the external pressures. Former minister Michel Pharaon warned that Lebanon’s independence is currently threatened by both "Israel and Iran," encapsulating the dual pressures facing the small Mediterranean nation. Meanwhile, MP Abdel Rahman Bizri attempted to strike a hopeful tone, renewing faith in the homeland and looking toward a promising future for the youth.
As the Army Commander honored the fallen soldiers and the flag was raised over the Qaraoun Dam, the day served as a stark reminder of Lebanon's precarious reality: a sovereign nation celebrating its history while struggling to assert exclusive control over its territory amidst powerful internal factions and watchful international eyes.