Israel and Lebanon are entering a new phase of diplomacy, with the US mediating formal peace negotiations set to begin next week. This development follows a historic phone call between Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors in Washington. However, internal political tensions in Lebanon, particularly regarding Hezbollah's influence, complicate the situation. Iran has issued warnings against excluding Hezbollah, emphasizing its critical role in maintaining Lebanon's stability. Hezbollah, designated a terrorist organization by the US, also functions as a political party and has a significant presence in Lebanese society. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has openly criticized Hezbollah's armed status, advocating for disarmament and emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions over military confrontations with Israel. Despite calls for disarmament, the path to reducing Hezbollah's influence is fraught with challenges due to its extensive social networks and political legitimacy within Lebanon's confessional power-sharing system. Analysts suggest that Hezbollah's resilience stems from its strategic connections and financial backing, making it a formidable entity in the region.