EU’s Costa says he welcomes Lebanon’s government decision to ban Hezbollah’s military activity

EU’s Costa says he welcomes Lebanon’s government decision to ban Hezbollah’s military activity

EU’s Costa Welcomes Lebanon’s Ban on Hezbollah Military Activities

The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell (referred to as “Costa” in the source materials), has expressed support for Lebanon’s recent decision to prohibit Hezbollah’s military and security operations, aligning with broader regional efforts to stabilize the country and reduce cross-border tensions. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced the ban on March 2, 2026, emphasizing that all military actions must fall under state institutions and that Hezbollah’s weapons must be handed over to confine the group to political activities.

The move follows escalating hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, including rocket attacks and Israeli airstrikes that left at least 31 Lebanese civilians dead. Salam reiterated Lebanon’s commitment to a ceasefire and diplomatic negotiations, while instructing the Lebanese Army to enforce a plan to restrict weapons to state control. However, the government has not provided a timeline or detailed mechanisms for disarmament, raising questions about implementation.

The EU’s stance reflects its dual approach to Hezbollah: designating its military wing as a terrorist organization while acknowledging its political role in Lebanon. Borrell’s support underscores the EU’s interest in strengthening Lebanon’s sovereignty and reducing Iranian influence through Hezbollah. The EU has long advocated for reforms to ensure the Lebanese Armed Forces remain the sole legitimate military authority, a goal reinforced by recent geopolitical shifts, including the decline of Hezbollah’s military capabilities following its 2024-2025 conflict with Israel.

Challenges persist, however. Hezbollah has not responded to the ban and retains significant political and military influence. Analysts note that Hezbollah’s reconstitution efforts, including smuggling weapons from Syria and securing Iranian funding, complicate disarmament. Additionally, Hezbollah’s cognitive warfare tactics—threatening internal instability—have slowed Lebanese government action north of the Litani River.

The EU’s engagement in Lebanon could focus on supporting political reforms, anti-corruption measures, and financial aid tied to Hezbollah’s disarmament. Such efforts align with broader European strategies to counter Iranian regional ambitions and promote stability in the Levant. For investors, Lebanon’s political and security developments remain critical risks, with potential implications for regional trade, energy projects, and EU-Iran relations.

As Lebanon navigates this fragile transition, international coordination—particularly between the EU, Lebanon, and regional actors—will be essential to balancing security, sovereignty, and economic recovery.