-
American envoy: Disarmament is a matter for the Lebanese state
On Monday, the American envoy to Lebanon, Tom Brid, stated that the disarmament of Hezbollah is a responsibility of the Lebanese state, considering that it is in the best interest of the Shiite community. He made this remark during a press conference in Beirut.
Brid confirmed after his meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun that he discussed the issue of Hezbollah’s disarmament with him, and regarded that the Lebanese government has taken the "first step" in this direction, pointing out the need for Israel to take a parallel step.
In his first visit to Beirut since authorities pledged to disarm Hezbollah before the end of the year, Brid said: "There is always a step-by-step approach, and I believe the Lebanese government has played its part; they launched the initiative." He added: "What we now need is for Israel to take a similar step." He also emphasized that the Lebanese army will be the security guarantor for the disarmament process, confirming that “Hezbollah cannot take anything without offering something in return.”
Brid further told reporters: "You will see progress across all levels in the coming weeks, which will lead to a better life for the people and our neighbors, and mark the start of a new dialogue pattern with all parties."
Lebanese media reported that President Aoun received the American envoys, Tom Brid and Morgan Ortega, at the Presidential Palace. He emphasized that the current requirement is for all parties to commit to implementing the joint declaration paper, in addition to supporting the Lebanese army and accelerating international measures to restart reconstruction in areas affected by Israeli assaults.
The American envoys are continuing their visit to Beirut, where they are meeting with Lebanese presidents and carrying two separate files. However, the shared goal remains the effective implementation of Hezbollah’s disarmament initiative, according to official sources to "Al Arabiya.net" and "Al Hadath.net".
