In a firm diplomatic stance reflecting Arab unity, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on behalf of the Arab Group, expressed its strong condemnation and deep denunciation of the Iranian attacks and aggressions that violated the sovereignty of a number of Arab states, namely Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

This official position was expressed during the speech delivered by the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Majid bin Khathila, within the framework of the general debate under Item 2 of the work of the sixty-first session of the Human Rights Council held in Geneva.

A blatant violation of international law

The Kingdom affirmed in its statement that these attacks are not merely isolated incidents, but rather a grave and blatant violation of the principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. The statement clarified that targeting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states is a red line that cannot be crossed, emphasizing that these practices constitute a serious breach of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, thus necessitating a firm international stance to hold accountable those responsible for destabilizing the region.

The timing of the escalation and the undermining of peace efforts

In analyzing the dimensions of this escalation, the Kingdom highlighted a crucial point concerning the timing of these attacks. These assaults occurred at a time when Arab states were engaged in intensive diplomatic efforts and tireless mediation attempts aimed at reducing tensions in the region and promoting dialogue and political solutions. The Arab Group considered this timing to reveal intentions to undermine peace efforts, rendering the escalation unjustified and threatening to derail efforts to achieve regional security and stability.

Arab solidarity and the right to self-defense

The Kingdom concluded its statement by affirming its full and unwavering solidarity with the targeted Arab states, considering their security an integral part of Arab national security. Ambassador Bin Khathila emphasized the inherent right of these states to defend themselves and protect their people and resources, in accordance with international law and the UN Charter, and affirmed the Arab Group's support for all measures taken by the affected states to preserve their security and stability.

In a significant and unprecedented development in the Lebanese political and security landscape, the Lebanese Cabinet, during its session held at Baabda Palace today (Monday), announced decisive measures aimed at extending state authority over all its territory. The Cabinet affirmed the Lebanese state's "absolute and unequivocal" rejection of any military or security operations launched from Lebanese territory outside the framework of official, legitimate institutions, emphasizing that the decision of war and peace is the exclusive right of the Lebanese state and its constitutional institutions.

Prohibition of military activity and restriction of weapons

The government decision included a strict ban on all Hezbollah security and military activities, deeming any such action illegal. The decision also obligated the party to surrender its military arsenal and weapons to the Lebanese state, confining its activities to the political sphere only, within the established constitutional and legal frameworks. This step comes as part of the government's efforts to enshrine the monopoly of arms by the Lebanese army and security forces, and to strengthen full national sovereignty.

Background to the military escalation

This urgent government action came after a serious deterioration in the security situation, as Hezbollah launched a large-scale attack on Israel this morning, declaring it to be in retaliation for the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This attack prompted a fierce Israeli response in the form of intensive airstrikes on Beirut, further exacerbating the rift between the Hezbollah leadership and the Lebanese government, which is making strenuous diplomatic efforts to avert a devastating regional war in Lebanon.

Political context and strategic dimensions

The issue of Hezbollah's weapons is one of the most complex and sensitive in modern Lebanese history, with the "defense strategy" having long been a point of contention among various political forces. This decision aims to redraw the internal balance of power, based on the principles of the constitution and the Taif Agreement, which stipulate the extension of state sovereignty over all its territory. Observers believe this step may be a last-ditch effort by the state to spare Lebanon the perils of becoming embroiled in regional power struggles, especially given the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Humanitarian and field repercussions

On the ground and humanitarian front, the Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut's southern suburbs and areas in southern Lebanon have killed 31 people so far. The strikes caused widespread panic among the population, with thousands fleeing on foot and by car, leading to traffic gridlock and severe congestion on roads leading to safer areas immediately after the bombing began.

The future of the Lebanese scene

This decision is expected to open the door to a heated internal political debate, given the traditional deep divisions surrounding the party's regional role and its weapons. Local and international observers are closely watching the reactions of various political forces and how the party will respond to this government decision, which strikes at the heart of its organizational structure, amid fears of repercussions that could destabilize the fragile internal situation.