The US is "washing its hands" of Hezbollah's disarmament efforts

By Yiannis Damellos

Source: Efsyn.gr

U.S. Signals Shift on Hezbollah Disarmament

U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barak stated in Beirut today that the issue of Hezbollah's disarmament must be resolved internally, as Washington urges Lebanon's new leadership to adopt a firmer stance against the Iranian-backed group.

"The disarmament of Hezbollah is an internal matter," Barak said during a press conference following his meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, adding that its failure to disarm would be "disappointing."

The new Lebanese leaders, who took office after more than a year of conflict that significantly weakened Hezbollah, reiterated their commitment to establishing a state monopoly on weapons while demanding that Israel adhere to the ceasefire established in November.

Israel conducts near-daily strikes in Lebanon, claiming it targets Hezbollah fighters and infrastructure, and has warned that these operations will persist until the organization disarms. Barak acknowledged that the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah "is not working."

"The U.S. should not force Israel to take any actions. We are here to exert our influence and encourage dialogue toward a solution," he added.

In June, Barak called for Lebanese leaders to formally commit to disarming Hezbollah, the only movement that retained its weapons after the civil war (1975-1990).

"Your leaders have been very helpful," he remarked during his second visit to Beirut today, commending "credible and important reforms."

Earlier today, Barak met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who presented him with a "draft protocol of agreement for implementing Lebanon's commitments" post-ceasefire, according to a presidential statement.