From streets to state authority: Lebanon positions itself as part of a stable Middle East

Report by Lara El Hachem, English adaptation by Yasmine Jaroudi  

On the night of August 7, the Lebanese government approved the general principles of a decision to confine all weapons to the hands of the state, in the absence of ministers from the Amal Movement and Hezbollah.

The decision, issued after the withdrawal of the Shiite ministers, sparked street activity. 

However, despite the sensitivity of the move, demonstrations remained contained, signaling an end to the era of street pressure and escalation. This was underscored by a leaked internal Amal Movement directive instructing members not to participate in any protest, under penalty of accountability.

Hezbollah sources denied issuing any statement announcing the resignation of Shiite ministers or warning against criticism of the resistance, insisting that the circulated statement was fabricated.

The shift in tone suggests that both Hezbollah and Amal recognize that street unrest only leads to destruction. The decision to extend the Lebanese Army's authority across the country has been made, with prior coordination ensuring a wide deployment from Khalde to central Beirut and along sensitive areas bordering other communities before the cabinet session even concluded.

While the army allowed some public expression to ease tensions, it has become clear that Lebanon's political atmosphere has changed. 

The presidential oath and ministerial statement are no longer mere words on paper. Lebanon is positioning itself as part of the Middle East with no room for war but a focus on stability. 

Authorities believe that only through stability and the assertion of state authority can economic, financial, and tourism recovery be achieved. President Joseph Aoun aims to return Lebanon to the Arab fold and open up to the international community to attract investment and restore confidence in the country's economy.