U.S. Envoy Urges Lebanon to Initiate Direct Talks with Israel

The U.S. is pressing Lebanon for direct negotiations with Israel due to dissatisfaction with its handling of Hezbollah. Envoy Steve Witkoff reported that Washington views the Lebanese government’s approach as ineffective and has laid down strict conditions for reconstruction and Hezbollah’s military presence. Negotiations are to be led by a civilian figure from Lebanon, with implications for the return of displaced persons and Israel’s control over disputed borders.

The United States is expressing dissatisfaction with Lebanon’s approach to Hezbollah and is advocating for direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, as stated by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. An unnamed Lebanese source, who met with Witkoff in Doha, reported that Washington deems the current Lebanese government’s strategy ineffective in addressing the Hezbollah issue.

Witkoff emphasized that the U.S. rejects Lebanon’s current maneuvering, which has not led to necessary results. He indicated that Lebanon must partake in direct negotiations with Israel, led by a civilian representative, while the Israeli side would be represented by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, a close associate of Prime Minister Netanyahu.

In conclusion, the U.S. is urging Lebanon to engage in direct talks with Israel while expressing discontent over its handling of Hezbollah. The U.S. envoy has laid out strict conditions tied to Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts, involving a comprehensive political settlement with Israel. Additionally, the future of Hezbollah’s military presence is under scrutiny, with pressure for disarmament across various regions. These developments highlight the increased U.S. influence on Lebanese political dynamics in regard to Israel.

Original Source: www.lbcgroup.tv