Diplomat from the United States expresses remorse for using the term 'animalistic' during their time in Lebanon

In a recent visit to Lebanon, Tom Barrack, the U.S. envoy mediating diplomatic efforts between the United States, Israel, and Lebanon, found himself in the midst of a controversy.

Barrack's visit followed a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about potential Israeli withdrawal from territory in southern Lebanon. However, the focus soon shifted to a comment Barrack made at the start of a news conference at the presidential palace.

During the conference, Barrack urged reporters to "act civilized, act kind, act tolerant." But his remarks took a turn when he threatened to cut the conference short if reporters did not behave, stating, "The moment that this starts becoming chaotic, like animalistic, we're gone."

The comment sparked an outcry, with the Lebanese press syndicate calling for an apology and threatening to boycott Barrack's visits if one was not issued. Barrack quickly acknowledged his remarks were "inappropriate" and apologized for using the word "animalistic."

The presidential palace issued a statement expressing regret for the comments made by Barrack. Barrack himself also stated that he should have been more generous with his time and more tolerant.

Despite the controversy, the main purpose of Barrack's visit remained the focus. He visited Beirut on Tuesday with a delegation of U.S. officials to discuss Lebanese government efforts to disarm the Hezbollah group and monitor the implementation of the cease-fire agreement.

Barrack's role in the region is significant. He acts as the top U.S. envoy, advocating for Lebanon's government plan to fully disarm the Hezbollah militia by the end of 2025, contingent upon Israel ceasing its military operations in Lebanon and withdrawing its troops from southern positions. He has engaged with Lebanese leaders including Prime Minister Najib Mikati and President Joseph Aoun, as well as Israeli officials, to promote this plan and encourage mutual concessions for de-escalation.

However, the order and timeline for Hezbollah's disarmament and Israeli withdrawal are still in dispute. On Thursday, the Israeli army launched airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah. The Israeli army stated that they targeted a "terrorist infrastructure and a rocket platform" belonging to Hezbollah. Two Lebanese soldiers were killed while investigating an Israeli drone that crashed in the Naqoura area on the southern coast, which then exploded. It is unclear why the drone fell or what caused the explosion.

As Barrack continues his efforts to mediate diplomatic relations in the region, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance and sensitivity required in such negotiations.

Diplomat from the United States expresses remorse for using the term 'animalistic' during their time in Lebanon