Support from these embassies to the Lebanese government: To restrict weapons to state control

The US Embassy in Beirut distributed a statement "to friends of Lebanon" affirming support for Lebanon's sovereignty and the exclusivity of weapons under state control, stating:

"We, the Embassies of the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Australia, Canada, and Japan, as friends of Lebanon, reaffirm our strong support for the Government of Lebanon in ensuring that weapons remain exclusively in the hands of the state, and that the state alone holds decision-making authority over matters of war and peace.

We take note of the steps taken by Lebanese authorities regarding the Dahr al-Baydar incident, and we encourage a swift and independent judicial process, free from any political interference, to ensure full accountability.

It is also essential for Lebanon, given current circumstances, to obtain a clear public commitment from all members of Parliament and all parties confirming their endorsement of statements by the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister that the Lebanese state alone has the right to decide on matters of war and peace.

We also reiterate our firm desire for the Lebanese state to fully regain its effective sovereign authority over all its territories."