Lebanese Interior Minister says presence of weapons in shelters is 'unacceptable'

Lebanon's Interior Minister Ahmad al-Hajjar said the government is closely monitoring developments in South Lebanon, including Israeli attacks and ground incursions, as security agencies intensify efforts to manage a growing wave of displacement.

Speaking after a meeting of the Internal Security Council, al-Hajjar said the escalating situation has led to multiple crises, most notably large-scale displacement toward safer areas, with the heaviest burden falling on Beirut and Mount Lebanon.

He stressed that security forces and state institutions are actively responding, taking necessary measures, and closely tracking population movements.

Al-Hajjar said security agencies are working to ensure the safety of Lebanese and displaced people, strengthening their presence through intelligence and security units, as well as through visible deployments in uniform aimed at reassuring the public.

He added that security forces are also accompanying rescue and emergency operations to protect displaced citizens and host communities, noting that Beirut continues to receive heightened attention, alongside a significant deployment in Mount Lebanon.

The minister also emphasized that the presence of weapons in shelters is unacceptable, saying clear instructions have been issued to address the issue. He confirmed that security forces will intervene whenever necessary, noting that several arrests have already been made in shelters and on roads.