The Trump administration is exerting pressure on Lebanon to curb Hezbollah’s influence, demanding rapid progress in Lebanese-Israeli relations with possible military repercussions for non-compliance. Diplomatic initiatives are being proposed alongside substantial US military aid, potentially reshaping the political landscape in Lebanon and its regional ties.
A recent report from Al-Arabiya indicates that the Trump administration has been actively communicating with the Lebanese government about the escalating security issues in southern Lebanon. Officials have conveyed the expectation for rapid and measurable progress regarding Lebanese-Israeli relations within a specified timeframe, underscoring urgency in these negotiations.
Senior officials from both the White House and the State Department have reportedly informed Lebanese leaders that “President Trump expects results very soon.” The discussions included clear warnings that failure to achieve the desired outcomes could lead to large-scale Israeli military operations within Lebanon.
Following up on this, earlier reports suggested that Trump had issued a one-month ultimatum for the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah and Palestinian factions in refugee camps. If these demands remained unmet, he threatened to advocate for UN Security Council intervention under Chapter 7, which could result in deploying international forces to dismantle Hezbollah.
American officials, including Morgan Ortagus, have declared intentions to initiate dedicated diplomatic talks between Lebanon and Israel to address longstanding issues. The strategy involves establishing working groups led by diplomats to foster constructive dialogue and promote peace.
In conjunction with these diplomatic overtures, the US has approved $95 million in military assistance to bolster the Lebanese army, reinforcing the importance of strengthening Lebanese sovereignty in maintaining regional security.
Expert analysis highlights a significant shift in the dynamics between Lebanon and Hezbollah, especially following the leadership changes within Hezbollah. The recent death of Hassan Nasrallah has reportedly weakened the group’s standing, raising discussions on the disarmament of Hezbollah amid internal dissent within Lebanon regarding the organization’s military engagements.
Despite these challenges, experts like Steve Witkoff express hope for Lebanon and Syria’s potential inclusion in the Abraham Accords. He notes ongoing efforts to facilitate normalization processes in the region and indicates that significant political changes may pave the way for enduring peace.
In summary, the Trump administration is pressing Lebanon for swift action against Hezbollah amid escalating tensions with Israel. Diplomatic efforts are commencing, supported by substantial military aid, as experts suggest a pivotal moment for Lebanon’s political landscape. The outcomes of these initiatives could potentially lead to significant shifts within Lebanon and its relations with Israel and Hezbollah.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
