Lebanon’s government discussed the second phase of a plan to enforce an arms monopoly north of the Litani River during its session on Tuesday, with army chief General Rodolphe Haykal presenting an implementation roadmap and setting a timeframe of four to eight months for completion.

Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem criticised the cabinet’s focus on restricting weapons, saying such a move would constitute a “grave mistake that serves Israel’s objectives,” according to his remarks.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier called on Lebanon to continue disarming Hezbollah to create conditions for Israel’s withdrawal from territories it occupies.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said the country “can no longer bear any conflicts or additional burdens,” stressing the need to maintain stability.

There was no immediate comment from Israeli officials.