Lebanon braces for military action amid rising tensions
September 30, 2024 | US Department of State
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In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the ongoing tensions in Lebanon and the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. The Lebanese Prime Minister expressed readiness to deploy the army to the borders and to elect a new president, emphasizing a commitment to diplomatic solutions amid a rapidly changing political landscape.
The dialogue highlighted the need for Hezbollah to withdraw from the border area, a move that would facilitate the enforcement of Resolution 1701, which has not been fully implemented since its passage. U.S. officials reiterated their support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and stressed the importance of avoiding civilian infrastructure targets during military operations, while acknowledging that Hezbollah's military presence remains a legitimate target for the Israeli Defense Forces.
Concerns were raised about Lebanon's internal stability, particularly given its fragile sectarian makeup and the compounded crises the country has faced, including a financial collapse and the Beirut port explosion. Officials noted that the instability in Lebanon is not a new issue, with Hezbollah's obstruction of presidential appointments for nearly two years exacerbating the situation.
While the recent military actions have heightened tensions, U.S. representatives indicated that it is too early to assess the full impact on Lebanon's political and social stability. However, they expressed optimism regarding the potential for positive change in the region, particularly with the diminishing influence of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
The meeting underscored the delicate balance of power in Lebanon and the ongoing efforts to foster a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, with a clear call for restraint and a focus on protecting civilian lives and infrastructure amidst military operations.
The dialogue highlighted the need for Hezbollah to withdraw from the border area, a move that would facilitate the enforcement of Resolution 1701, which has not been fully implemented since its passage. U.S. officials reiterated their support for the Lebanese Armed Forces and stressed the importance of avoiding civilian infrastructure targets during military operations, while acknowledging that Hezbollah's military presence remains a legitimate target for the Israeli Defense Forces.
Concerns were raised about Lebanon's internal stability, particularly given its fragile sectarian makeup and the compounded crises the country has faced, including a financial collapse and the Beirut port explosion. Officials noted that the instability in Lebanon is not a new issue, with Hezbollah's obstruction of presidential appointments for nearly two years exacerbating the situation.
While the recent military actions have heightened tensions, U.S. representatives indicated that it is too early to assess the full impact on Lebanon's political and social stability. However, they expressed optimism regarding the potential for positive change in the region, particularly with the diminishing influence of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.
The meeting underscored the delicate balance of power in Lebanon and the ongoing efforts to foster a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, with a clear call for restraint and a focus on protecting civilian lives and infrastructure amidst military operations.
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