US Envoy Discusses Hezbollah Disarmament With Lebanon Amid Israeli Strikes

U.S. Special Envoy Thomas Barrack visited Beirut to press for the full disarmament of Hezbollah, presenting a proposal that would see the group relinquish its weapons within four months in exchange for the withdrawal of Israeli troops and a halt to Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon. The proposal comes amid continued Israeli strikes on Lebanon and ongoing tension following a ceasefire that ended a year-long conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. Lebanese officials, including President Joseph Aoun, have responded positively to the U.S. proposal with a detailed counterproposal, though specific details remain undisclosed. Hezbollah's leadership remains divided, with the group reportedly considering a partial reduction of its arsenal but refusing to fully disarm until Israeli forces leave Lebanese territory and targeting of its members ceases. The issue of Hezbollah's armament remains highly sensitive within Lebanon, where the group retains broad popular support and political influence. The diplomatic efforts aim to finalize a roadmap linking Hezbollah's disarmament to Lebanon's reconstruction and the cessation of Israeli military actions.