Lebanon-US Discussions on Ceasefire, Hezbollah Disarmament

Beirut, Aug 18 (AP) – The United States special envoy to Lebanon announced Monday that discussions surrounding a long-term ceasefire with Israel will be underway, subsequent to Lebanon's endorsement of a US-facilitated strategy aimed at the disarmament of Hezbollah.

After holding discussions with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Tom Barrack confirmed that Washington intends to formulate an economic strategy for the post-conflict reconstruction in Lebanon, building upon several months of diplomatic engagements between the United States and Lebanon.

Barrack is scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and Speaker Nabih Berri, who often aligns with Hezbollah in negotiations with the US.

“The Lebanese government has initiated their response. They’ve taken the initial step,” stated Barrack, who also serves as the US ambassador to Turkiye. “What remains is for Israel to reciprocate with similar gestures.” Lebanon's decision to support the disarmament plan last week has incited displeasure among the Iran-supported Hezbollah and its allies, who maintain that Israel's military should first retreat from the five strategic hilltops occupied in southern Lebanon following their 14-month conflict with Hezbollah that concluded last November. Additionally, they demand a cessation of almost daily airstrikes within Lebanon.

Naim Kassem, the secretary-general of Hezbollah, has pledged resistance against disarmament efforts, heightening concerns over potential civil strife in the region.

Barrack cautioned that Hezbollah might “miss an opportunity” if it does not endorse the disarmament appeals.

Both President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam advocate for the disarmament of Hezbollah and other non-state armed factions, urging Israel to cease its attacks and withdraw its forces.

President Aoun expressed a desire to enhance financial support for Lebanon's underfunded military to strengthen its capabilities. He also seeks funding from international sources to aid the country's reconstruction efforts.

The World Bank reports that the prolonged conflict between Hezbollah and Israel in late 2024 resulted in damages and economic losses amounting to USD 11.1 billion, severely affecting vast sections of southern and eastern Lebanon. Additionally, Lebanon has been grappling with a severe economic downturn since 2019.

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