Lebanon's government has officially banned all military activities by the militant group Hezbollah, following the organisation's retaliatory attack on Israel. This decisive move comes after Hezbollah opened fire on Israel to avenge the killing of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in a bombing on Saturday.
Israeli Airstrikes and Lebanese Response
Israel responded to Hezbollah's aggression with heavy airstrikes on Hezbollah-controlled areas in Beirut and wider Lebanon, resulting in 31 confirmed fatalities. Smoke was seen rising from Israeli airstrikes on Dahiyeh, a southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, on Monday, March 2, 2026, as documented by AP Photo/Hassan Ammar.
Prime Minister's Firm Stance
The Lebanese Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, asserted the state's exclusive right to decisions of war and peace, demanding Hezbollah cease its military operations immediately. Salam further called for Hezbollah to hand over its weapons to the Lebanese state, deeming its current activities unlawful and a threat to national sovereignty.
This ban marks a significant escalation in Lebanon's efforts to control Hezbollah's actions, which have long been a point of contention in regional politics. The government's stance underscores its commitment to maintaining stability and preventing further conflict with Israel, amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
