Israel is now expected to follow suit as Lebanon takes steps towards disarming Hezbollah, according to Barrack's statement.
In a recent meeting in Beirut, U.S. diplomat Tom Barrack emphasised the need for Israel to fully withdraw from Lebanese territory and cease its violations, following the November truce between Israel and Hezbollah. Barrack is currently engaged in discussions with Israeli officials regarding Israel's position regarding the ceasefire.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has also underscored the importance of adhering to the contents of the joint declaration, calling for more support for the Lebanese army and speeding up the internationally required steps for reconstruction. However, Aoun did not specify which other parties he was referring to in his statement.
The Lebanese government, in a move to disarm Hezbollah, has endorsed a U.S. text that aims to phase out the armed presence of all non-state actors, including Hezbollah, across all Lebanese territory. The U.S. has proposed a timetable for Hezbollah's disarmament and is pressuring Lebanon to take action. The Lebanese cabinet has tasked the army with developing a plan to disarm Hezbollah by the end of the year, with the deadline set for August 31, 2025.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has vowed to fight plans to disarm, stating that the resistance will not surrender its weapons while occupation persists. Under the terms of the November truce, Hezbollah was to withdraw its fighters from the Israeli border, with all weapons brought under the control of the Lebanese state.
Progress is expected on all sides in the next few weeks, according to Barrack. Israel, however, has kept forces at five border points it deems strategic, despite being meant to fully withdraw from Lebanon. Lebanon has been weighed down by a series of dire crises in recent years.
Barrack also called for an economic plan for prosperity, restoration, and renovation in Lebanon. His comments were made following the meeting in Beirut between him and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. The U.S. text endorsed by the Lebanese cabinet includes objectives to ensure the sustainability of the November ceasefire agreement with Israel.
The meeting in Beirut marked a significant step in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace in the region and address the complex issues facing Lebanon. The U.S. and Lebanon continue to work together towards a peaceful and prosperous future for the nation.
Read also:
- ICE directed to enhance detention conditions following NYC immigrants' allegations of maltreatment
- Israeli finance minister issues warnings about potential annexation of West Bank territories
- United States faces rebuttal from South Africa over allegedly deceitful human rights report and assertions of land expropriation
- Accident at Rodalben Results in Injuries; Geoskop Area near Kusel Affected After Stormy Weather