The day of the arms monopoly push and US disarmament call

The day's Lebanese media coverage centered on the contentious cabinet session and the government's push for an exclusive state arms monopoly. Early reports detailed the 'Duo's' (Hezbollah-Amal) refusal to discuss the arms file and the army's firm stance on weapons exclusivity, framing the session as a critical juncture. Throughout the morning, officials like President Aoun and Ambassador Nawaf Salam condemned escalating Israeli aggressions in the south, stressing the international community's responsibility. The Arab League Secretary-General Aboul Gheit publicly supported Lebanon's decision on arms exclusivity. By evening, internal debates intensified with discussions of potential Shiite minister withdrawals if an army disarmament plan was presented. A significant new development emerged as the New York Times reported US officials warning that time is running out for Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah, clearly linking the internal political struggle to external pressures.