Lebanon claimed progress in disarming militant groups. The Lebanese military announced Thursday it completed the first phase of its disarmament plan. The plan is part of the deal that ended the war between Israel and Hezbollah.

The announcement comes over a year after the fragile US-brokered ceasefire. The Lebanese government faces intense pressure to disarm groups like Hezbollah. This pressure stems from the truce agreement. Israel and the US have warned of potential Israeli military action if disarmament lags.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's office called the efforts "an encouraging beginning." However, he stated they are "far from sufficient." Israel claims Hezbollah is rearming. The Israeli Foreign Ministry alleges extensive Hezbollah military infrastructure remains in southern Lebanon. They accuse the group of reconstituting with Iranian support.

The disarmament plan aims to address concerns about regional stability. Hezbollah, backed by Iran, has been a major player in Lebanese politics and military affairs.

The next steps involve continued monitoring and verification of disarmament efforts. International pressure on Lebanon to fully implement the ceasefire agreement remains high.