The Lebanese presidency announced that Paris will host an international conference on March 5 to support the Lebanese Army, as part of efforts to ensure all weapons are placed under state authority.

The announcement follows the completion of the first phase of a plan to disarm Hezbollah south of the Litani River.

A presidential spokesperson said President Joseph Aoun discussed preparations with French envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian and representatives from Saudi Arabia, the United States, and Qatar to secure broad international participation.

France pledged to sponsor the conference to enhance the army’s readiness amid severe funding and resource shortages.