Trump Administration Pressures Lebanon to Address Hezbollah Threat

The Trump administration is urging the Lebanese government to act swiftly against Hezbollah, warning of possible Israeli military intervention. With a recent $95 million military aid approval, the U.S. seeks to initiate diplomatic talks between Lebanon and Israel. There are indications that Lebanon may be encouraged to join the Abraham Accords, driving change in the region.

A recent report from Al-Arabiya indicates that the Trump administration has delivered firm messages to the Lebanese government regarding the security issues in southern Lebanon. Reports suggest that U.S. officials are urging quick and effective actions from the Lebanese government within a limited timeframe.

According to the report, high-ranking officials from both the White House and the State Department have made it clear that “President Trump expects results very soon.” They emphasized the importance of swift progress in Lebanese-Israeli relations over the forthcoming weeks. The message further included a warning to Lebanon that if the required changes are not achieved, Trump may allow large-scale military operations by Israel against Hezbollah.

This report aligns with earlier information from Lebanon’s Al-Liwaa newspaper that stated President Trump had issued a one-month ultimatum to Lebanon. This ultimatum required the deployment of the Lebanese army to disarm militias, mainly Hezbollah, and Palestinian groups in refugee camps. If these demands were not met, Trump suggested seeking UN Security Council action to place Lebanon under Chapter 7, facilitating the dismantling of Hezbollah.

Morgan Ortagus, deputy special presidential envoy for Middle East peace, noted that the U.S. aims to engage Lebanon and Israel in dedicated diplomatic discussions to address their unresolved issues. As per Al-Arabiya, working groups led by diplomats will focus on fostering peace between these two nations.

In addition to these diplomatic efforts, the U.S. has approved military aid amounting to $95 million to Lebanon. A spokesperson from the State Department remarked that reinforcing the Lebanese army and upholding its sovereignty along the southern Litani River is the most effective path to ensure regional stability.

In conclusion, the Trump administration’s recent communications with the Lebanese government highlight a pressing demand for progress regarding Hezbollah. The U.S. aims to foster diplomatic relations between Lebanon and Israel while offering military support. Notable changes in regional dynamics may also pave the way for Lebanon’s potential participation in the Abraham Accords, despite the persistent challenges faced by the nation and its neighboring countries.

Original Source: www.jewishpress.com