Trump Administration Urges Lebanon to Address Hezbollah Threat Promptly

The Trump administration is pressing the Lebanese government to swiftly address security issues related to Hezbollah and improve relations with Israel. Reports indicate that failure to comply may result in significant Israeli military action. The U.S. has also committed $95 million in military aid to bolster Lebanon’s army and facilitate peace talks with Israel, reflecting a strategic shift in Middle Eastern diplomacy.

In recent weeks, the Trump administration has reportedly communicated pressing demands to the Lebanese government regarding the security situation in southern Lebanon. According to Al-Arabiya, U.S. officials have insisted on immediate and significant progress to improve Lebanese-Israeli relations within a compressed timeframe. There is an emphasis on the urgency of these demands, with statements from the White House indicating that “President Trump expects results very soon.”

Furthermore, sources highlighted a stern warning from President Trump, suggesting that large-scale Israeli military action in Lebanon could occur if Lebanon fails to comply with these expectations. Earlier in February, reports indicated that President Trump had given the Lebanese government a one-month ultimatum to disarm militias such as Hezbollah and Palestinian factions residing in refugee camps, threatening UN involvement if cooperation did not materialize.

Morgan Ortagus, a U.S. official dedicated to Middle East peace, conveyed that diplomatic engagement between Lebanon and Israel is a priority. The United States aims to form working groups led by diplomats to facilitate discussions on unresolved issues impacting both nations.

Additionally, the U.S. government has authorized $95 million in military assistance to Lebanon, reinforcing the belief that bolstering the Lebanese Army is vital for regional security and stability. The State Department reinforced the notion that supporting Lebanese sovereignty is crucial.

Experts have voiced their opinions on Lebanon’s capacity to address the challenges posed by Hezbollah. Professor Eyal Ziser from Tel Aviv University expressed that President Trump’s ambitions may encompass seeking peace across the Middle East, notably with expectations for Syria and Lebanon to consider joining the Abraham Accords. However, he noted the complexities involved in this process.

Patricia Karam of the Arab Center remarked on a profound shift in Lebanon’s political landscape following the death of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in September. This event has led to increasing calls among the Lebanese populace for comprehensive disarmament of Hezbollah and accountability for political repression, reflecting growing resentment regarding the organization’s actions.

On February 26, Steve Witkoff speculated on the potential for Lebanon to engage with the Abraham Accords and acknowledged significant shifts taking place in the region. He expressed hope surrounding the normalization of relations in the Middle East, drawing attention to the ongoing efforts to involve Saudi Arabia in similar agreements.

In summary, the Trump administration’s insistence on urgent reforms in Lebanon underscores the tense geopolitical dynamics affecting the region. The emphasis on disarmament of Hezbollah and the bolstering of the Lebanese Army through American support illustrates a strategic approach to enhancing stability. Furthermore, recent changes in Lebanon’s political landscape may catalyze a shift in regional alliances, particularly towards engaging in the Abraham Accords. As diplomatic discussions progress, the region remains at a critical juncture, with potential implications for both Lebanon and Israel.

Original Source: www.jewishpress.com