Beirut: US envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, has expressed his satisfaction with Lebanon's response to a proposed roadmap aimed at the disarmament of Hezbollah. Barrack's comments followed a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, as reported by the Lebanese official news agency NNA.

According to Anadolu Agency, Barrack emphasized that the United States will not impose directives on Lebanon regarding Hezbollah. Instead, the US will support Lebanon's efforts towards achieving a peaceful resolution. Barrack noted the importance of demonstrating to Hezbollah that there is a viable path to peace and prosperity that includes them.

Barrack reiterated President Donald Trump's commitment to supporting Lebanon's economic growth and urged the Lebanese government to take advantage of the opportunity for dialogue. He highlighted the ongoing talks between Syria and Israel as a model for Lebanon to follow, asserting that Israel is also interested in peaceful relations with Lebanon.

During his visit to Beirut on June 19, Barrack proposed a roadmap to top Lebanese officials, suggesting that Hezbollah disarm by the end of the year. In exchange, Israel would withdraw from five occupied positions in southern Lebanon and release funds for reconstruction efforts in war-torn areas. However, Hezbollah has refused to disarm until what they describe as the "end of Israeli aggression" against Lebanon.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated into a full-scale war in September 2024, despite a ceasefire agreement reached in November. Israeli forces have continued to launch attacks in southern Lebanon, citing Hezbollah's activities as justification. Lebanese authorities have documented nearly 3,000 Israeli violations of the truce, resulting in the deaths of at least 231 people and injuries to over 500.

As part of the ceasefire agreement, Israel was expected to withdraw completely from southern Lebanon by January 26, but the deadline was extended to February 18 due to non-compliance by Tel Aviv. Israel still maintains military presence at five border outposts.