Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced on November 7th, 2025, during the Lebanon Technology Conference, that the government has begun implementing its plan to collect all weapons and transfer them to the state. He stated that the army is currently in the first stage of this plan, which involves collecting weapons south of the Litani River and has already made significant progress. Salam also indicated that the second part of the plan focuses on collecting weapons north of the Litani, including stopping their transfer and use, alongside efforts to halt smuggling and drug trafficking at the border and expand the army's deployment. Prime Minister Salam further asserted that only the government of Lebanon has the authority to decide on matters of war and peace, following recent statements from Hezbollah. He also discussed Lebanon's efforts to disengage from Iran and restore relations with Arab nations, stating that Lebanon has returned to the Arab world and aims to reclaim its active role. This comes amid ongoing discussions regarding a potential ceasefire in the region, with Egyptian intelligence chief Hassan Rashad having previously engaged in talks with Lebanese and Israeli officials. Previous reports indicated that Israeli officials believed future negotiations would not involve Hezbollah, Iran, Yemen, or Iraq, suggesting preparations for further conflict. Egyptian intelligence chief Hassan Rashad had also expressed dissatisfaction with the Israeli leadership's approach during his visit to Tel Aviv, viewing it as arrogant. The Lebanese side had been informed that US pressure on Israel necessitated concrete, coordinated steps from Lebanon, including Hezbollah's involvement in resolving security issues.
