US envoy Morgan Ortagus arrives in Lebanon to address Hezbollah’s influence in government formation. Key meetings with Lebanese officials aim to underscore the urgency of reform and the need for a government free from Hezbollah’s dominance. The situation is further complicated by Lebanon’s economic crisis and ongoing discussions about military aid and regional stability.
A US delegation, led by Morgan Ortagus, is visiting Lebanon to address Hezbollah’s influence amidst ongoing government formation talks, the first for Trump administration officials. They plan to meet Lebanese leaders, including President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, to express concerns about Hezbollah’s unchecked power in the government. The US is urging Lebanon to establish a reform-focused government to avoid increased isolation.
Previous discussions surrounding Lebanon’s new government faced setbacks due to disagreements among political factions, particularly over ministerial appointments. Salam has not agreed to grant Hezbollah and its ally Amal a ‘blocking third’ in the cabinet. This arrangement has historically allowed these parties to exercise significant influence and power over the government, complicating the current political landscape.
President Aoun’s recent election marked the end of a two-year presidential vacancy and aimed to facilitate the formation of a new cabinet. During his presidency, Aoun emphasized the state’s control over weapons, though he refrained from naming Hezbollah directly. Current political tension persists as Salam aims to prioritize accountability and transparency following Lebanon’s deepening economic crisis since 2019.
Issues related to Hezbollah’s military presence were also raised during the visit, particularly in light of a ceasefire agreement with Israel. This agreement, initially set to achieve a withdrawal of fighters, faces uncertainties, especially with the Trump administration’s freeze on significant foreign aid to Lebanon’s military. The political environment remains precarious as key cabinet discussions advance while Hezbollah’s influence looms large.
The visit of US envoy Morgan Ortagus to Lebanon highlights ongoing concerns regarding Hezbollah’s power in the formation of the new government amidst a prolonged economic crisis. The Trump administration’s stance suggests potential ramifications for Lebanon if reforms are not prioritized. Understanding Hezbollah’s influence is critical, especially in the context of Lebanon’s delicate political balance and the US-Lebanon relations shaped by various geopolitical factors. Since 2008, Hezbollah, along with its ally Amal, has held considerable sway in Lebanese cabinets due to their ability to block government decisions through their ‘blocking third’ of seats. The recent electoral changes and Salam’s commitment to reforms are pivotal in redefining this influence, particularly as Lebanon seeks to navigate a path towards stability and recovery from corruption-induced economic hardships.
The US envoy’s visit to Lebanon underscores the critical nature of addressing Hezbollah’s influence as the country strives to form a new government. The discussions reveal significant stakes for Lebanon’s future amidst pressing domestic and foreign pressures. As the political situation evolves, the outcome of these negotiations will play a vital role in Lebanon’s governance and international relations, particularly with the US and regional actors.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
