Lebanon is witnessing a rapid military escalation and mounting international pressure, leaving little room for maneuver and making the country's political landscape even more complex.

Since the resumption of the war in Gaza, U.S. and Israeli threats have shifted from deterrent rhetoric to concrete steps that could be implemented at any moment. The U.S. administration, no longer able to afford prolonged diplomacy, has adopted a more decisive stance. Faced with this reality, Lebanon finds itself at a crossroads: comply with international demands or confront repercussions that could undermine its sovereignty and deepen the state of chaos. Has the moment of truth arrived, or can Lebanon still avoid the worst?

Washington Gives Lebanon a Final Ultimatum

According to American diplomatic sources cited by Nidaa Al-Watan newspaper, Washington is closely monitoring Iranian influence in Lebanon as part of its broader strategy to curb Hezbollah's power and reshape the region. These sources indicate that the U.S. is channeling its efforts into strengthening the Lebanese army as a cornerstone of national sovereignty. The U.S. administration has reportedly given the Lebanese government a final deadline to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which entails dismantling Hezbollah's arsenal and expelling Iranian military advisors from Lebanon.

American demands also extend to the disarmament of Palestinian militant factions within refugee camps and the handover of Islamist extremists affiliated with al-Qaeda in the Ain al-Hilweh camp to Lebanese authorities. These demands underscore Washington's view that Lebanon's internal security is deeply intertwined with the broader regional context.

Furthermore, U.S. sources assert that Lebanon's most significant challenge lies in restructuring its state institutions and financial sector to reduce Iranian influence. This step is deemed essential for political reforms that could pull Lebanon out of its prolonged crises.

Diplomatic sources revealed to Nidaa Al-Watan that Washington has warned Lebanon of severe consequences should it fail to meet these demands. The Israeli government, according to these sources, has already secured U.S. approval and support for large-scale military operations if Hezbollah continues to maintain its arsenal.

These warnings come amid growing international concerns over the Lebanese government's slow pace in fulfilling its obligations under international resolutions. The U.S. has hinted at the possibility of suspending military and economic aid to Lebanon, emphasizing that the reconstruction of areas damaged in the south, the Bekaa Valley, and Beirut's southern suburbs will not proceed until these resolutions are fully implemented.

A Ticking Clock

According to U.S. sources, Lebanon now stands at a decisive crossroads. The Lebanese government no longer has the luxury of time; any delay in making critical decisions could severely threaten the country's stability. The immediate task is not only to avoid another devastating war but also to safeguard what remains of national sovereignty. In light of these developments, the question looms large: Can Lebanon navigate this crisis and curb Iranian influence, or is it teetering on the brink of open conflict?