Lebanon Presses for Sovereignty as U.S. Demands Action on Hezbollah Disarmament

Lebanon's official stance took a notable turn on Friday, with the country signaling a push to uphold its international and Arab commitments amid heightened security concerns.

As part of this shift, President Joseph Aoun held a meeting with the heads of security agencies to issue necessary directives in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, according to sources cited by Nidaa Al Watan.

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam also made headlines with a statement suggesting a departure from past policies, declaring that "the issue of Hezbollah’s weapons was closed after the ministerial statement," and that the "People, Army, Resistance" trilogy has become "a thing of the past."

According to ministerial sources, Washington informed Lebanon's official circles that Hezbollah is not only failing to comply with the ceasefire resolution but is actively working against it. The U.S. administration further warned that the group is seeking to rearm and reorganize its ranks, a move that could jeopardize any potential aid to Lebanon.

"Lebanon cannot receive any assistance until the state assumes its responsibilities," U.S. officials reportedly told their Lebanese counterparts, emphasizing the need for concrete action.

Washington has also expressed its support for Lebanon adopting a clear timeline to disarm Hezbollah, signaling a growing expectation for the Lebanese government to take decisive measures.