Beirut: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun conveyed to a US Treasury delegation on Sunday that Lebanon is taking stringent measures to combat money laundering, smuggling, and the use of funds for terror financing.

According to Anadolu Agency, the meeting occurred at Baabda Palace, east of Beirut, with a delegation led by Sebastian Gorka, the US Deputy Assistant President for Counterterrorism Affairs. President Aoun emphasized Lebanon's rigorous implementation of approved measures to curb financial crimes, stating that the country imposes strict penalties for such offenses.

Aoun further noted that, in addition to financial controls, Lebanon's army and security services are actively pursuing terrorist cells. His remarks came in the wake of the US Treasury Department's recent sanctions on individuals accused of facilitating the transfer of significant funds from Iran to Hezbollah in 2025.

The Lebanese President also highlighted the urgent need to pressure Israel into ceasing its assaults on Lebanon. He urged adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and last year's ceasefire agreement, which calls for the deployment of army forces along the southern border and the implementation of a plan to ensure state control over weapons.

The US delegation expressed their willingness to assist Lebanon in achieving security and stability in the south, supporting the army's extension of state authority across all Lebanese territories, eliminating armed manifestations, and enabling legitimate security forces to fulfill their duties.

Recently, under pressure from the US and Israel, the Lebanese government decided to restrict weapons to state forces, including Hezbollah, as of August 5. On October 13, President Aoun reiterated the importance of negotiations with Israel to resolve ongoing issues, though this stance has sparked domestic divisions. Critics argue it represents either a pragmatic approach to avoid escalation or a concession to international pressure.

Despite Aoun's initiative, Israel did not respond and instead intensified its airstrikes in Lebanon, violating the November 2024 ceasefire agreement established after more than a year of conflict with Hezbollah.