Beirut: US Senator Lindsey Graham warned on Tuesday that Lebanon's political and economic future, and its regional and international standing, hinge on disarming Hezbollah, saying the step is essential for unlocking international support and stability. Speaking at a press conference in Beirut after meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, as part of a congressional delegation visiting Lebanon, Graham said Lebanon faces a historic choice.
According to Anadolu Agency, the US senator stated that Lebanon is regressing, not progressing, due to the presence of armed non-state groups like Hezbollah and Palestinian factions. He emphasized that consolidating arms under the Lebanese army is crucial. Graham also suggested that disarming these groups could pave the way for enhanced Arab and Western engagement with Lebanon.
Moreover, Graham floated the idea of a potential US-Lebanon defense agreement, which he described as potentially transformative for the country. He stressed the importance of defending religious diversity and warned that those who seek to undermine it should be aware that their influence is waning.
While Graham acknowledged that the decision ultimately rests with the Lebanese people, he asserted that Israel's stance towards Lebanon would remain unchanged without disarmament. He depicted Hezbollah as a liability to Lebanon's sovereignty and regional future.
On August 5, the Lebanese government approved a plan to consolidate all weapons under state control and tasked the army with drafting a plan by the end of the month, with execution targeted before the end of 2025. However, Hezbollah rejected the decision, labeling it a 'grave sin.'
The situation between Israel and Lebanon remains tense, as evidenced by Israel's military offensive in Lebanon on October 8, 2023, which developed into a full-scale war by September 2024, resulting in significant casualties. Although a ceasefire was reached in November, Israeli forces continue to conduct near-daily operations in southern Lebanon, citing Hezbollah activities as the reason.
Under the terms of the truce, Israel was required to fully withdraw from southern Lebanon by January 26, but the deadline was extended to February 18 following Tel Aviv's non-compliance. Israel continues to maintain a military presence at five border outposts.