The Lebanese army announced the completion of the first phase of its plan to disarm non-state armed groups in southern Lebanon, specifically in the area between the Litani River and the Israeli border. According to a statement released Thursday, the army has effectively established a state monopoly on arms in the designated area. The statement did not explicitly name Hezbollah, the dominant armed group in the region.

The military now controls the area south of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the border with Israel, with the exception of territory and positions still occupied by Israel, the statement added. This move is part of a broader effort to implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for the disarmament of all armed groups in Lebanon other than the Lebanese Armed Forces.

The disarmament plan is a sensitive issue in Lebanon, where Hezbollah maintains significant political and military power. The group's arsenal has been a point of contention both domestically and internationally, with some viewing it as a necessary deterrent against Israeli aggression and others seeing it as a threat to Lebanese sovereignty and regional stability.

The Lebanese army's announcement comes amid ongoing tensions in the region. Israel has repeatedly accused Hezbollah of violating Resolution 1701 by maintaining a military presence in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah, in turn, accuses Israel of violating Lebanese airspace and territorial waters.

The success of the disarmament plan hinges on several factors, including the cooperation of Hezbollah, the support of the Lebanese government, and the willingness of the international community to provide assistance. The Lebanese army faces significant challenges in implementing the plan, including the risk of armed resistance from non-state groups and the potential for political backlash.

The next phase of the plan is expected to focus on consolidating the army's control over the area and preventing the re-emergence of non-state armed groups. The army has not yet announced a timeline for the completion of the overall disarmament plan.