BEIRUT — The US envoy, Tom Barrack, has publicly urged Israel to meet its obligations under a ceasefire agreement that ended the war with Hezbollah, following a significant move by the Lebanese government to initiate disarmament of the militant group.
Speaking after a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, the US envoy commended Beirut, stating:
“I think the Lebanese government has done their part. They’ve taken the first step. Now what we need is Israel to comply with that equal handshake.”
Earlier in August, Lebanon’s Cabinet took the unprecedented action of instructing the army to develop a plan to disarm Hezbollah by the end of the year, marking the first such move since the end of its civil war era.
US envoy proposed roadmap calls for a phased disarmament of Hezbollah, beginning with handing over weapons to the state and moving toward full removal of arms by December, in exchange for an Israeli troop withdrawal and cessation of cross-border attacks.
US Envoy Satisfied but Non-Threatening in Approach
Barrack expressed that Washington does not intend to coerce either Lebanon or Israel.
“We are not here to intimidate anyone. The positive outcomes will benefit Hezbollah, Lebanon and Israel alike. Our focus is on future prosperity, not fear.”
Earlier comments highlighted the internal nature of disarmament, with the envoy stating:
“The Hezbollah disarmament… is something that is so internal. If it didn’t happen, it would be disappointing.”
US envoy- he also remarked on the ceasefire agreement’s shortcomings, noting it “didn’t work,” and emphasized the need for renewed diplomacy.
Under the November ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah agreed to pull forces north of the Litani River, while Israel was to withdraw its troops from southern Lebanon. However, Israeli forces remain at five “strategic” border points.
Barrack called on Israel to comply with these terms—effectively extending the “equal handshake” he says Lebanon has already provided.
US envoy- The road to disarmament is far from smooth. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem warned that the group would not relinquish its weapons while perceived existential threats remain. Qassem labeled the plan unacceptable and signaled resistance.
The tension was reflected in the Lebanese Cabinet too—Shiite ministers aligned with Hezbollah walked out in protest against the U.S.-backed plan.
The U.S. envoy’s visit also included plans to discuss economic aid, reconstruction support, and international cooperation. He emphasized that Lebanon’s stability is vital for broader regional peace.
“In the next few weeks you’re going to see progress on all sides… It means a better life for the people… and at least the beginning of a roadway to a different kind of dialogue.”
Foreign support is key—regional allies and Western partners have tied reconstruction funding to progress on Hezbollah’s disarmament.
With the US envoy calling for measured implementation, Lebanon has made a historic move by endorsing the disarmament of Hezbollah. Now the burden shifts to Israel—if both sides comply, a fragile but vital path toward peace and reconstruction may open.
However, with Hezbollah’s defiance and deep political divides at home, Lebanon’s vision for a state monopoly on force faces uncertainty. Whether the invitation to an “equal handshake” leads to tangible peace hinges on Israel’s response, Lebanon’s internal unity, and continued international support.
Source- EWN
