In a stark warning to Lebanon’s leadership, Hezbollah deputy chief Naim Qassem on Friday cautioned that any attempt to confront the Iran-backed group over a proposed US-backed disarmament plan would leave “no life” in Lebanon, raising fears of political instability and potential violence.

Speaking to supporters, Qassem said Hezbollah and its Shi’ite Muslim ally, the Amal movement, had agreed to delay street protests against the disarmament proposal, signalling that the group still sees an opening for dialogue with the Lebanese government.

However, he warned that if protests resume, demonstrators could target the US Embassy in Beirut. “Any bid to disarm the group could lead to civil war,” Qassem declared, underscoring Hezbollah’s longstanding opposition to giving up its arsenal, which it claims is essential for Lebanon’s defence against Israel.

The comments come just days after Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reiterated that no group in the country has the right to bear arms or rely on foreign backing.

In a meeting with Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s top security body, Aoun stressed that Lebanon is open to cooperation with Iran but only under conditions of national sovereignty and mutual respect.

The United States has presented Lebanon with a detailed proposal to disarm Hezbollah by the end of the year. According to a Lebanese cabinet agenda seen by Reuters, the plan also includes ending Israel’s military operations in Lebanon and withdrawing its troops from five positions in the south.

The plan was reportedly submitted by US President Donald Trump’s regional envoy, Tom Barrack, and marks Washington’s most comprehensive initiative yet to dismantle Hezbollah’s military capacity.

Since last year’s devastating war with Israel, Hezbollah has faced growing domestic and international calls to disarm. While its supporters see it as a vital resistance force, critics argue that its arsenal undermines state sovereignty and perpetuates conflict.

Lebanon’s fragile political balance — split among various sectarian and political factions — has made the issue of Hezbollah’s weapons a particularly sensitive matter.

Analysts warn that forcing the group to disarm without broad consensus could push the country toward renewed internal conflict, reminiscent of its 1975-1990 civil war.

For now, Hezbollah’s decision to postpone street demonstrations may ease immediate tensions. But Qassem’s remarks suggest the group is prepared to escalate if it perceives a direct threat to its military wing.

The coming months are expected to test Lebanon’s political stability as it navigates between US pressure, domestic divisions, and the influence of regional powers like Iran and Israel.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members