The Trump administration has urged Israel to curb “non-essential” military operations in Lebanon in a bid to reinforce the Lebanese government’s decision to begin dismantling Hezbollah’s arsenal, according to two sources cited by Axios. 

Despite a ceasefire with Hezbollah agreed last November, Israel has carried out near-daily airstrikes in Lebanon and maintains a military presence at five outposts in the south. Israeli officials have insisted the positions will be held as long as Hezbollah is seen as a threat.

The U.S. has now asked Israel to consider withdrawing from one of the outposts and to sharply scale back its air campaign for several weeks as an initial gesture to support the Lebanese effort, the sources said.

As Washington believes that reciprocal measures by Israel could strengthen the Lebanese government’s credibility and provide the political space needed to follow through, American envoy Thomas Barrack has been holding discussions with Israeli leaders on a package of parallel steps that Israel could take alongside Beirut’s disarmament process.

The proposal includes a temporary halt on “non-urgent” strikes, which could be extended if the Lebanese Armed Forces demonstrate progress in curbing Hezbollah’s ability to regroup in the south.

Barrack has also suggested a phased withdrawal from the five Israeli outposts, tied to concrete steps by Lebanon to dismantle Hezbollah’s weapons network, according to the sources.

Another element of the U.S. initiative envisions the creation of a “Trump economic zone” in areas of southern Lebanon bordering Israel. Saudi Arabia and Qatar have already signaled their willingness to invest in reconstruction there once Israeli troops pull back, the sources said.

The proposed economic zone is designed to reduce the likelihood of Hezbollah reestablishing a military foothold along the border, while also addressing Israeli security concerns without the need for continued occupation.

The most recent round of discussions took place in Paris on Wednesday, where Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer met for several hours with Barrack and U.S. diplomat Morgan Ortagus.

One source described the talks as “constructive,” noting that while no final decisions were reached, Israel showed flexibility.

“The Israelis didn’t say no, and they are willing to give it a chance,” the source said. “They understand the Lebanese cabinet’s decision was historic and that they need to offer something in return.”