The Lebanese Army has launched raids on Palestinian camps across Lebanon, marking a major policy shift from decades in which these camps operated with significant autonomy beyond state control.

The move follows rising concerns over Hamas’s activities in Lebanon since 2023, which have fueled security debates within the country. Officials say the raids are part of a broader national strategy to consolidate state authority and address the widespread presence of weapons in the camps.

This operation stems from a decision reached during a May 2025 meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Both leaders agreed on steps to gradually disarm Palestinian factions operating in Lebanon and bring security under the control of the state.

Analysts view the raids as a bold but risky step, as Palestinian camps have long been politically sensitive areas. While some Lebanese factions support the move as a step toward sovereignty and stability, others fear it could spark new tensions within the fragile political and sectarian balance of the country.