In a significant move that could reshape security dynamics in Lebanon’s refugee camps, Palestinian factions recently began handing over large quantities of weapons to Lebanese authorities. This is part of a wider deal aimed at disarming arms not under state control—and it comes amidst long-standing tensions and violence within the camps.

Here’s what we know so far, why it matters, and what the challenges ahead might be.

🔍 What Happened

• Palestinian groups in two major camps—Ein el-Hilweh (the largest Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon, near Sidon) and Beddawi (near Tripoli in the north)—delivered truckloads of weapons to the Lebanese army. In the latest phase, five trucks came from Ein el-Hilweh and three from Beddawi. AP News+2Asharq Al-Awsat+2

• Earlier, weapons were handed over in camps in Beirut and in southern Lebanon, under the same disarmament plan. The National+2Al Jazeera+2

• The items surrendered are said to belong to factions affiliated with the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Some of the weapons include heavier arms and ammunition. The National+3Asharq Al-Awsat+3Asharq Al-Awsat+3

🌐 Why This Is Significant

• State Monopoly on Arms: The handover represents one of the most serious efforts in years by the Lebanese government to establish the state’s monopoly over arms. Lebanon has long had non-state armed groups inside refugee camps operating with relative autonomy. Reuters+2Al Jazeera+2

• Political & Diplomatic Moves: This effort follows agreements made between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. They committed to consolidating weapons under Lebanese state control. Reuters+2Anadolu Ajansı+2

• Security & Stability: The camps have sometimes been hotspots for inter-factional violence. The hope is that reducing unregulated weapons will lower the risk of clashes and civilian harm. The National+1

⚠️ Who’s Not Fully On Board & Some Limits

• Not all factions are participating. Groups like Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad have distanced themselves or have not agreed to hand over their weapons as part of this deal. AP News+2Al Jazeera+2

• It seems clear that what’s being surrendered for now are “illegal” weapons—arms that are unregistered, smuggled, or otherwise outside recognized faction authority. Weapons considered “personal,” or those belonging to some organized groups, are often being excluded. Al Jazeera+2Anadolu Ajansı+2

• The transfer has been gradual. The process began earlier, but full implementation across all camps will take time, negotiation, and likely more tension. Al Jazeera+2The National+2

🔭 What to Watch Going Forward

Here are the key things to monitor as this situation develops:

1. Complete Participation
   Whether all major Palestinian factions will join this process—including those currently holding back.

2. Transparency in What’s Handed Over
   Exactly what weapons are being surrendered, and whether there is verification by third parties or oversight to ensure compliance.

3. Impact on Everyday Life in the Camps
   If fewer weapons lead to fewer clashes, change in local crime or violence rates, or improvements in safety for residents.

4. Lebanese State Capacity & Response
   How well the Lebanese authorities can handle logistics, security, and prevent illegal re-arms. Also, whether there are risks of backlash from factions resisting the handover.

5. Wider Regional Implications
   How this move affects perceptions in neighboring countries, and whether it influences Lebanon’s broader security posture vis-à-vis groups like Hezbollah, or Iran’s influence in the region.