Lebanon faces internal disagreements over border agreement and Syrian diplomatic engagement

As of July 3, 2026, Lebanon is experiencing internal political friction regarding a framework agreement for its southern border and the management of relations with Israel. Military sources report that the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied areas has not yet begun, which has stalled the deployment of the Lebanese army and the plan to consolidate state control over weapons. During a cabinet meeting, ministers aligned with Hezbollah expressed objections to specific terms within the framework agreement. Nabih Berri, the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, warned that Israel is attempting to force the Lebanese army into a conflict with resistance groups, a scenario he rejects due to national stability concerns. Simultaneously, diplomatic activity between Beirut and Damascus has increased. President Joseph Aoun has announced the formation of a joint high-level committee with Syria. This follows a visit to Beirut by Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Shaibani, who held discussions with President Aoun and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. Damascus has publicly stated it does not wish to intervene in Lebanon, despite reports that the United States previously encouraged Syria to assist in the disarmament of Hezbollah, an initiative that Syria has resisted due to fears of inciting ethnic tensions.