براك بعد لقاء عون: نزع السلاح يخدم الشيعة

The American envoy Tom Brack expects the coming weeks to witness tangible progress that will reflect in a better life for the Lebanese people and their neighbors. He stated that his country "feels hopeful."

Following his meeting with President Joseph Aoun, with the participation of American envoy Morgan Ortagus, today (Monday) in Beirut, he said he discussed with President Aoun the issue of disarming Hezbollah, reiterating that this decision pertains solely to the Lebanese state.

He added that "disarming serves the Shiite community because it is a Lebanese community, and the positive results will include all of Lebanon," emphasizing that the Lebanese government has taken the first step, and now it is Israel's turn to take a parallel step.

Brack clarified that "after Lebanon's step, there is an expected step from Israel, and everyone must cooperate away from hostility and confrontation," calling on Hezbollah to see the better option, asking, is there a better option than restricting weapons?.

He confirmed that what is happening is an opportunity for peace and prosperity, noting that Hezbollah cannot take anything without offering something in return, and stated that the Lebanese army will be the security guarantor for the issue of disarming the party.

The American envoy pointed out that his country is not trying to scare anyone, as the positive results include the party, Lebanon, and Israel together, and we are focused on future prosperity, not intimidation.

He affirmed that Washington does not carry any threats regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah, and there is cooperation from everyone, adding that we have not presented any proposal to Israel regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah.

Regarding Hezbollah's refusal to hand over weapons, Brack stressed that there is no thought of issuing any threats, as dealing with Hezbollah is purely a Lebanese procedure, and our role has been advisory.

On Morgan Ortagus's return, Brack said: "We brought Ms. Ortagus back as part of our team at the recommendation of President Trump."

For his part, President Aoun stated that what is required now is the commitment of the other parties to the content of the joint declaration paper and further support for the Lebanese army, as well as accelerating the necessary international steps to launch the reconstruction workshop in the areas targeted by Israeli attacks.

The visit of American envoys Tom Brack and Morgan Ortagus is receiving exceptional attention, especially as it comes in the days leading up to two prominent deadlines: the extension of UNIFIL forces and the submission of a comprehensive plan by the Lebanese army for the mechanism of weapon restriction in the hands of the state. Although the extension of UNIFIL is considered a nearly settled matter, the nature of the proposed amendments to the international force's missions could represent a decisive element in the path of establishing sovereignty and enabling the army to exercise its actual authority.