The Trump administration is pressing Lebanon to eliminate Hezbollah swiftly, with warnings of potential Israeli military action. U.S. officials demand measurable progress in Lebanese-Israeli relations and offer military aid to bolster the Lebanese army. Recent dynamics suggest a possible shift in attitudes toward Hezbollah following the death of its leader.
In recent communications, the Trump administration has conveyed strong messages to the Lebanese government regarding the security situation in southern Lebanon. Reports indicate that U.S. officials are demanding swift progress and enhanced relations between Lebanon and Israel within a short timeframe, emphasizing that President Trump anticipates results promptly.
The U.S. has reportedly issued a warning: if necessary outcomes regarding Hezbollah are not achieved, large-scale Israeli military operations in Lebanon could be permitted. This aligns with claims from the Lebanese newspaper Al-Liwaa, stating that Trump had previously given the Lebanese government a one-month ultimatum to deploy its army and disarm militias, particularly Hezbollah and Palestinian factions.
In this context, Morgan Ortagus, the Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for Middle East Peace, announced plans for dedicated diplomatic discussions aimed at resolving outstanding issues between Lebanon and Israel. The U.S. aims to spearhead diplomatic efforts through organized working groups to foster peace in the region.
Additionally, the U.S. has approved $95 million in military aid to Lebanon, with officials emphasizing the importance of strengthening the Lebanese army to ensure regional stability and sovereignty. The ongoing support underscores that bolstering Lebanon’s defenses is crucial to addressing security challenges.
Experts suggest that the dynamics between Lebanon and Hezbollah have significantly shifted, particularly following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah by Israel. This event has led to doubts regarding Hezbollah’s invincibility and has intensified internal divisions in Lebanon related to the group’s military involvement, thereby generating calls for disarmament and accountability.
The Trump administration’s recent initiatives towards Lebanon signify a critical juncture in U.S.-Lebanese relations, emphasizing the need for immediate action against Hezbollah. With significant military aid being provided and calls for diplomatic engagement between Lebanon and Israel, the U.S. aims to facilitate peace in the region. The shifting landscape following Nasrallah’s death may also create an opportunity for Lebanon to reconsider Hezbollah’s role, further impacting the geopolitical context.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
