Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced plans to bring all weapons under state authority by the end of 2025, including those held by Hezbollah. In an interview during his visit to Qatar, Aoun emphasized dialogue over conflict, stating, “We do not want a civil war in Lebanon.”

Aoun said direct talks are ongoing with Hezbollah and praised the group’s cooperation in southern Lebanon under UN Resolution 1701. He noted that the Lebanese army has closed tunnels and destroyed arms depots linked to Hezbollah.

He also called on the U.S. to pressure Israel to withdraw from occupied areas and end attacks on Lebanese soil, arguing that such actions undermine disarmament efforts.

Aoun added that Hezbollah fighters meeting military criteria could integrate into the national army, as done after the Lebanese civil war.

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Iran Warns Europe Over Nuclear Dispute

On Jun 6, 2025

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.

Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.

Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.

Europe Iran Nuclear UN Uranium

Lebanon Targets Full State Control of Arms by 2026

Iran Warns Europe Over Nuclear Dispute