Lebanon's prime minister bans Hezbollah from conducting military operations
In an unprecedented move, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam issued an executive decree ordering all armed factions to halt military activity from Lebanese territory.
Middle East — March 2, 2026
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam issued a sweeping executive decree Monday ordering Hezbollah and all other non-state armed groups to immediately cease military operations launched from Lebanese soil.
The order came after Israeli airstrikes overnight struck multiple sites in Beirut's southern suburbs and in the Bekaa Valley, killing at least 14 people and wounding dozens more.
'Lebanon will not be a launching pad for regional conflict. We call on all parties to respect our sovereignty and our people,' Salam said in a nationally televised address.
The decree represents the most direct challenge any Lebanese government has issued to Hezbollah's military autonomy. Analysts said enforcement remains a separate question, but the symbolism is significant.
Hezbollah spokesman Mohammad Afif said the movement would 'study the decree' but gave no commitment to comply, reiterating the group's stated obligation to resist Israeli aggression.
The US and EU welcomed the Lebanese government's statement and hinted at renewed financial support for the Lebanese Armed Forces if the order is upheld.
