Thomas Barrack, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey and Washington’s acting special envoy for Syria, held a series of high‑level meetings in Beirut on Thursday, delivering what local reports described as a clear American message that Lebanon must be kept out of the ongoing regional conflict and that progress is needed on disarming Hezbollah.

Barrack met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at Baabda Palace, where, according to reports, he said he would temporarily oversee the Lebanese file until a permanent envoy is appointed.

Barrack conveyed U.S. President Donald Trump’s commitment to assisting Lebanon in overcoming its challenges, reaffirming Washington’s support for the Lebanese army and the government’s security, economic, and financial initiatives.

The U.S. envoy reportedly called for "accelerated action" on the Hezbollah weapons issue but did not set a specific deadline.

Barrack is said to have outlined a “step-for-step” approach, under which any Lebanese move toward disarming Hezbollah would be matched by reciprocal Israeli steps on the ground.

He also urged Beirut to enhance coordination with Damascus on border demarcation and security, although he made no direct reference to the disputed Shebaa Farms or the village of Ghajar—longstanding points of contention in Lebanese-Israeli negotiations.

Aoun, for his part, reiterated Lebanon's demand for the Israeli army to withdraw from remaining occupied territories in the south, to end cross-border violations, and to release Lebanese detainees.

The Lebanese head of state also called on the United States to support Lebanon’s efforts to restore stability and security, particularly in the south, amid rising regional tensions. He highlighted the crucial role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which works in close coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

“The Lebanese army, deployed south of the Litani River, has been fully implementing Resolution 1701 by removing armed presence, confiscating weapons and ammunition, and preventing any armed groups other than official security forces,” Aoun said. However, he added that the continued Israeli occupation of the five hilltops and surrounding areas has prevented the army from fully completing its mission.

The president underscored that Lebanon’s reform process is ongoing and will not be interrupted. He stressed the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and strengthening state institutions to keep pace with development across multiple sectors.

Aoun also told Barrack that efforts to establish exclusive state control over all weapons, including those held by Palestinian factions, are underway and will accelerate once the current regional unrest stemming from the Israeli-Iranian conflict stabilizes.

Following his meeting with Aoun, the U.S. envoy headed to Ain el-Tineh for talks with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.

Addressing reporters, Barrack said his visit aimed to support Lebanon and prevent another war.

“If I had a solution to the Israeli-Lebanese conflict, I wouldn’t have come to Beirut,” he said. “We carry a message amid a complicated global situation and believe that Lebanon’s new leadership can begin a process of peace and improvement. We are committed to helping Lebanon and remain hopeful.”

Regarding the risk of Hezbollah’s involvement in the ongoing regional conflict, Barrack warned, “If Hezbollah intervenes, it would be a very bad decision.”