Lebanon to Submit Hezbollah Disarmament Proposal with U.S. and Gulf Backing
A Lebanese Plan to Launch Dialogue on Hezbollah Disarmament
U.S. Special Envoy for Syria and Lebanon, Tom Barrack, announced that the Lebanese government will submit a formal proposal by August 31 aimed at achieving Hezbollah disarmament. He clarified that the initiative would not necessarily involve military action, but would instead focus on political and economic alternatives to encourage the group to relinquish its weapons.
Israeli and Regional Involvement in the Process
Barrack, speaking after meeting with the Lebanese president in Beirut, revealed that Israel will present a counterproposal once it receives Lebanon’s plan. He described the expected Israeli response as “historic” and based on a “step-by-step” approach. He emphasized that Hezbollah must not remain armed in ways that pose a threat to Israel.
Limiting Iran’s Role and Boosting Gulf Economic Support
The U.S. envoy accused Iran of continuing to finance Hezbollah, while affirming that Washington is working to offer Lebanon viable alternatives. These include economic development partnerships with Gulf states, as well as integration into a wider regional economic zone that could reduce Hezbollah’s influence and enhance Lebanese sovereignty.
Avoiding Civil Conflict Through National Dialogue
Barrack stressed that no one wants to see Lebanon descend into civil war, urging all parties to embrace a peaceful, comprehensive solution that prioritizes internal stability over confrontation.
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