Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has hailed Lebanon’s decision to begin disarming Hezbollah by the end of 2025, describing it as a “momentous step” toward restoring Lebanon’s sovereignty and regional stability.
In a statement released on Monday, August 25, 2025, Netanyahu said Israel “acknowledges the significant step taken by the Lebanese Government, under the leadership of President Michel Aoun and Prime Minister Tammam Salam,” after the Council of Ministers resolved to pursue the disarmament of the Iran-backed militant group.
“The recent decision marks a crucial opportunity for Lebanon to reclaim its sovereignty and restore the authority of its state institutions, military, and governance—free from the influence of non-state actors,” Netanyahu said.
The Israeli leader added that Israel is ready to support Lebanon in implementing the decision and expressed willingness to take corresponding steps if progress is made. “If the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) take the necessary steps to implement the disarmament of Hezbollah, Israel will engage in reciprocal measures, including a phased reduction of IDF presence in coordination with the US-led security mechanism,” he said.
Netanyahu stressed that the development presents a chance for both countries to turn a new page. “Now is the time for both Israel and Lebanon to move forward in a spirit of cooperation, focusing on the shared objective of disarming Hezbollah and promoting the stability and prosperity of both nations,” he concluded.
The announcement marks one of the strongest signals yet from Israel of potential de-escalation along its northern border, provided Lebanon follows through with concrete action against Hezbollah, which has long been a flashpoint in the countries’ fraught relations.
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