Baabda: Speaking from Baabda Palace, U.S. envoy, Tom Barrack, on Tuesday stated that former President Donald Trump ‘wants to see a prosperous Lebanon,’ adding: ‘Disarmament must happen, and the three Lebanese presidents are doing their best to achieve prosperity, so why is Hezbollah still armed?’
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Barrack revealed that on August 31, the Lebanese government and army will present a disarmament plan. ‘This is not about war,’ he said, ‘but about Hezbollah reaching the conviction to relinquish its weapons.’
‘Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa has no interest in hostile relations with Lebanon. On the contrary, he seeks cooperation,’ Barrack added.
Barrack also emphasized regional economic development, announcing plans to involve Gulf countries in Lebanon’s southern economic zone, while also ‘addressing Israeli concerns.’ He noted, ‘A peace agreement with Israel is a path to prosperity and stability.’
‘I feel hopeful,’ he continued. ‘Your government has taken a remarkable step by requesting that the army prepare a disarmament plan for Hezbollah. This will be presented to us. Israel has expressed satisfaction with the prospect of withdrawal and has no desire to occupy Lebanon.’
Morgan Ortagus, U.S. envoy accompanying Barrack, added: ‘Israel is ready to proceed step by step in response to the Lebanese government’s decisions. We will support Lebanon in this historic move and encourage Israel to do its part.’