US Envoy Urges Israel to Honour Ceasefire as Lebanon Moves to Disarm Hezbollah

US envoy Tom Barrack has called on Israel to honour its commitments under the ceasefire that ended its war with Hezbollah, following Lebanon’s decision to initiate a process to disarm the militant group.

Under the terms of the truce agreement, all weapons in Lebanon were to be restricted to the state, while Israel was expected to fully withdraw its troops from Lebanese territory. Despite this, Israel has maintained forces at five border positions it considers strategically important.

Speaking after a meeting in Beirut with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Barrack stated: “I think the Lebanese government has done their part. They’ve taken the first step. Now what we need is Israel to comply with that equal handshake.”

This development comes as Lebanon seeks to assert state authority over armed groups and ensure compliance with long-standing agreements aimed at stabilising the region.

Barrack’s remarks highlight the US commitment to ensuring mutual adherence to the truce, emphasising that Lebanon has acted in good faith and now expects reciprocal compliance from Israel.

The initiative to disarm Hezbollah marks a significant step in efforts to stabilise southern Lebanon and reduce regional tensions, though challenges remain given the group’s entrenched presence and political influence.