Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said on Monday that his leadership is determined to withdraw all Palestinian weapons from Lebanon, calling the step essential to the country’s security and sovereignty.
In an interview with Al-Arabiya, Abbas confirmed that he had reached an understanding with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on carrying out the withdrawal process. “The removal of weapons from the camps is a prelude to protecting Lebanon,” he said. “We are determined to ensure all Palestinian arms are withdrawn.”
He noted that the debate over disarming Palestinian camps in Lebanon has been ongoing for more than 15 years. “These weapons served their purpose in 1969 and have no role today,” he stressed.
The Palestinian leader underscored his support for Lebanon’s institutions, rejecting any role for weapons outside the authority of the state. “I will not be the reason for obstructing the Lebanese state project,” Abbas declared. “I want a normal relationship with Lebanon and for it to maintain its unity and security.”
He also emphasized that all Palestinian weapons would be placed under the custody of the Lebanese state, ensuring official oversight.
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