Morgan Ortagus, U.S. envoy to the Middle East, urged Lebanon’s new leaders to prevent Hezbollah from being part of the government during her visit to Beirut. She highlighted Hezbollah’s defeats against Israel and emphasized U.S. pressure on Iran to stop funding the militia. Lebanon’s ability to balance these pressures while maintaining stability in a conflict-prone environment remains crucial.
In a recent conference in Beirut, U.S. envoy Morgan Ortagus urged Lebanon’s new leadership to keep Hezbollah out of the government amid ongoing tensions in the region. Hezbollah, a significant political force backed by Iran, has been part of Lebanon’s governance for decades, yet faces increasing pressure due to its involvement in conflicts with Israel. Ortagus emphasized that the new government must ensure Hezbollah does not play a role in its cabinet.
Ortagus reiterated that Hezbollah had suffered defeats against Israel, signaling a potential shift in the political dynamics of Lebanon. Despite the organization’s historic influence, she noted that Lebanon’s leadership is united in their commitment to prevent Hezbollah from holding any government position. This stance comes as the U.S. intensifies pressure on Lebanon to weaken Hezbollah’s political power amid ongoing violence in the region.
The U.S. administration is also focusing on pressuring Iran to cut its financial support for regional proxies, including Hezbollah. Ortagus’s visit marks the first by a senior U.S. official since the Trump administration began, indicating a strategic interest in reshaping Lebanon’s political landscape. With Lebanon struggling to maintain stability following persistent conflict, the country’s new leaders face a complex challenge in navigating relationships with both Hezbollah and international allies.
The Lebanese political system has historically been influenced by various militias, with Hezbollah being one of the most powerful, having substantial military capabilities and political influence. The organization has participated in Lebanon’s government but faces international scrutiny due to its ties to Iran and its role in regional conflicts, particularly with Israel. The U.S. has expressed concern over Hezbollah’s dominance and seeks to support Lebanese authorities in reducing its influence.
The Trump administration’s envoy Morgan Ortagus has made clear the U.S. stance on Hezbollah’s involvement in the Lebanese government, advocating for its exclusion as Lebanon navigates fragile political conditions. As tensions between Israel and Hezbollah persist, the U.S. also aims to pressure Iran to halt its support for the militia. The effectiveness of these strategies remains uncertain, given Hezbollah’s entrenched position within Lebanese politics.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
