Lebanese president set to meet Trump as Beirut seeks Israeli withdrawal
Summary
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun is visiting Washington, DC, to seek support from President Donald Trump for Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon and for strengthening the Lebanese army. This follows recent talks between Lebanon and Israel to implement a ceasefire agreement and efforts to reduce Hezbollah’s influence in the region.Key Facts
- President Joseph Aoun arrived in Washington, DC, for an official visit, the first by a Lebanese head of state since 2009.
- Aoun is meeting with President Trump to discuss support for Israeli withdrawal and backing for the Lebanese army.
- Recent US-mediated talks in Rome involved Lebanon and Israel discussing the implementation of a ceasefire deal signed on June 26.
- The Israeli military has started a gradual withdrawal from some parts of southern Lebanon under a plan called the “pilot zone programme.”
- Lebanese troops have begun deploying in areas where Israel withdrew, aiming to take control and confiscate Hezbollah’s weapons.
- Hezbollah opposes Lebanon’s negotiations with Israel and wants to keep its weapons, while Israel demands Hezbollah’s disarmament before full withdrawal.
- Lebanon’s government wants to disarm non-state armed groups like Hezbollah to improve security and stability.
- The Lebanese government seeks increased US and international investment to support the army and rebuild the country’s damaged infrastructure.
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