Aoun: Joint committees to tackle Palestinian weapons in Beirut camps

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
26 May 2025 15:09

New joint committees will begin work next month to tackle the issue of Palestinian weapons in three Beirut camps, as Lebanon navigates complex security concerns and broader regional pressures tied to Palestinian refugee presence.

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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun meets with a US congressional delegation headed by Senator Angus King, on May 26, 2025. (@LBpresidency)

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has announced the formation of joint Lebanese-Palestinian committees tasked with addressing the presence of Palestinian weapons in Lebanon, specifically in refugee camps located in the capital, Beirut. The initiative is set to begin mid-next month and will initially focus on three camps in the city.

President Aoun made the announcement during a meeting with a US congressional delegation led by Senator Angus King. He stated that the aim is to “address the issue of the presence of Palestinian weapons inside these camps,” emphasizing the importance of security coordination and respect for Lebanese sovereignty.

The announcement follows President Aoun’s recent meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Beirut.

The discussions concluded with a joint declaration reaffirming the need for:

The Lebanese State monopolizes arms
Prevent the use of Lebanese territory for any military operations
Respect Lebanese sovereignty while enhancing Lebanese-Palestinian relations in a way that supports the Palestinian cause without undermining internal stability

In a separate context, Aoun addressed the issue of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, calling for a phased and secure return to Syria. He stated that “beginning the process of lifting US sanctions on Syria would be a positive step,” arguing that reviving the Syrian economy is crucial for creating the conditions necessary for repatriation.

Aoun also urged the United Nations to redirect its aid to Syria rather than continuing to support Syrian refugees inside Lebanon, noting that prolonged displacement is placing a severe burden on Lebanese infrastructure and host communities.