US Demands Hezbollah's Exclusion from Lebanon's Government
The United States has taken a firm stance on Hezbollah’s role in Lebanon’s government, making it clear that Washington will not accept the group's involvement in the country’s political structure. US Deputy Middle East Envoy Morgan Ortagus, during her recent visit to Lebanon, stated that she is "not afraid" of Hezbollah, emphasizing that the group has already been "defeated militarily." However, she made it clear that the US considers Hezbollah’s participation in Lebanon’s government a “red line” that cannot be crossed.
Ortagus’ visit comes at a crucial time, as Lebanon continues to struggle with forming a new government. The process has been complicated by Hezbollah’s influence, particularly through its ally, the Amal Movement, which has insisted on controlling key ministerial positions for Shia Muslim representatives. This deadlock has further delayed political progress in the country.
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The Iran-backed Hezbollah has long been a powerful player in Lebanon, both militarily and politically. However, following Israel’s recent military actions in Lebanon, there are growing discussions about whether Hezbollah has been significantly weakened. Despite this, the group remains a major force in the country’s governance. Ortagus made it clear that the US will not allow Hezbollah to "terrorize the Lebanese people" by holding positions in government.
Her visit also coincided with the ongoing ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, which was brokered by the US and France. This ceasefire initially set a deadline for Israeli troops to withdraw from southern Lebanon by late November, but delays have pushed the new deadline to February 18. Ortagus reaffirmed that the withdrawal would proceed as scheduled, stating that Israeli forces would complete their redeployment, making way for Lebanese troops to take control of the area.
This is the first time a senior US official has visited Lebanon since President Donald Trump took office and since Joseph Aoun was elected as Lebanon’s president. Ortagus’ trip signals Washington’s strong interest in shaping Lebanon’s political future, particularly by ensuring that Hezbollah is excluded from any governing role. With tensions still high and government formation stalled, all eyes are now on how Lebanon’s leadership will respond to the US demand and whether the fragile political landscape can move forward without Hezbollah’s involvement.
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