Washington pushes for normalization between Lebanon and Israel, linking Beirut’s fate to Damascus and warning of civil conflict
U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barrack confirmed that the United States has facilitated undisclosed talks between Lebanon and Israel, despite Israeli legal restrictions on direct contact. Barrack stated that the discussions are actively ongoing as part of broader U.S.-led efforts in the Middle East, which include sensitive issues such as Syria’s reconstruction and potential new dialogues involving Israel in the context of normalization.
Barrack emphasized that Washington is not imposing solutions on Lebanon but offering assistance while waiting for a clear response from the Lebanese government. He warned that time no longer permits traditional delay tactics, cautioning that “everyone around Lebanon may take decisive steps if the Lebanese themselves do not act swiftly.”
He noted that the core of any future agreement would involve addressing Hezbollah’s weapons, adding that the process must begin with the Lebanese government’s approval and a mutual understanding with the group. In this context, Barrack suggested that Hezbollah’s political wing might recognize the need to unify Lebanon’s various sectarian components, stating that “the time is right for normalization, and Israel must be part of any future solution.”
At a press conference in New York, Barrack further revealed that Lebanon’s hesitation to address the Hezbollah weapons issue is rooted in fears of civil war. He mentioned a “limited timeframe” linked to U.S. President Donald Trump’s patience, noting that “Trump has been among the most supportive American presidents of Lebanon since Dwight Eisenhower,” in his words.
In his concluding remarks, Barrack linked normalization between Syria and Israel to a broader regional track that may also involve Lebanon and Iraq over the long term. He cited former Syrian President Ahmad Al-Shara’s position, noting that “Israel is not an enemy,” and that he was open to negotiating solutions to the region’s ongoing challenges.
Related Topics: Joseph Aoun clarifies Lebanon’s foreign policy stance on normalization and peace
