US envoy Morgan Ortagus affirmed Hezbollah’s exclusion from the Lebanese government during her visit, thanking Israel for its role in defeating the militia. She stated that Hezbollah’s power is over, asserting US commitment to preventing its political participation. Lebanon faces difficulties in forming a government amid Israeli military actions and internal disputes about ministerial roles.
During a conference from the Lebanese Presidential Palace, US envoy Morgan Ortagus asserted that Hezbollah will not have any role in Lebanon’s government, declaring its dominance over. Ortagus expressed gratitude to Israel for its efforts in defeating Hezbollah, emphasizing that the Lebanese populace, President Aoun, and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam contributed to this outcome.
Ortagus addressed queries regarding Hezbollah’s insistence on governmental participation, expressing confidence that the group has been militarily defeated, affirming that the US has drawn clear boundaries to prevent Hezbollah from terrorizing the Lebanese citizens through political means. She boldly stated that “the end of Hezbollah’s reign of terror in Lebanon and around the world has started … and it’s over.”
The US envoy reiterated the commitment to a timeline for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon, highlighting that February 18 will mark the redeployment deadline. She emphasized the need for the Lebanese army to take over security in the region. Nevertheless, President Aoun urged Israel to cease its violations and withdraw from Lebanon, remaining silent on the Hezbollah issue.
Negotiations for the formation of a new Lebanese government have faced difficulties, particularly over ministerial appointments involving Hezbollah and its ally, the Amal Movement. Recent reports noted a disagreement over the selection of a Shia minister, as Salam sought a non-affiliated candidate. The talks appeared to have deteriorated recently after earlier reports indicated a government formation was near.
On the backdrop of these developments, Israeli forces conducted airstrikes in southern Lebanon and demolished structures in border towns as they uphold claims that Hezbollah remains active beyond the Litani River. Israel insists on troop presence until the Lebanese army fulfills its commitments per UN Resolution 1701; however, they have reportedly violated the ceasefire more than 1,300 times, indicating ongoing tensions and unresolved issues.
The article revolves around US envoy Morgan Ortagus’s statements during her visit to Lebanon, where she addressed Hezbollah’s role in the Lebanese government and US-Israel relations. Her remarks reflect a significant stance on Lebanon’s internal security dynamics, particularly concerning Hezbollah’s military status after prolonged conflicts in the region. The backdrop includes ongoing tensions between Israel and Lebanon, especially concerning the Israeli military presence and violations of UN ceasefire agreements. The article highlights the complex political landscape in Lebanon, where Hezbollah’s influence in government remains a contentious issue, further complicated by alliances with local parties. Ortagus’s comments imply a US-backed perspective against Hezbollah while showing support for the Lebanese government’s efforts to maintain sovereignty and security. This situation is also marked by ongoing negotiations for a stable government, which have stalled due to disputes over ministerial appointments and political affiliations within Lebanon’s fractious political system.
In summary, Morgan Ortagus’s statements reaffirm the US commitment to minimizing Hezbollah’s influence in the Lebanese government and supporting Israeli military efforts. Despite these assurances, significant hurdles remain regarding the composition of Lebanon’s new government and the ongoing Israeli military presence in the region. The situation underscores the need for collaborative efforts among key stakeholders to address both security and political challenges in Lebanon. Furthermore, the complexities of Lebanese internal politics and ongoing strikes by Israeli forces emphasize the fragile state of peace in the region.
Original Source: thecradle.co
