Carole Salloum, "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency

Trump to Lebanon: Don’t Miss This "Once-in-a-Lifetime" Opportunity...

Do Lebanese officials now see the picture clearly?

U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks during his visit to Saudi Arabia, highlighting a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" for Lebanon to thrive and live in peace with its neighbors, reflect a consistent theme in his foreign policy agenda. Promoting peace in the Middle East has remained a central priority throughout his presidency, as emphasized in numerous public declarations.

His choice of words echoes previous statements made by Morgan Ortagus, the U.S. Deputy Envoy to Lebanon, who has repeatedly emphasized the importance of not wasting this rare opportunity. Ortagus is reportedly preparing for an official visit to Lebanon in the near future, signaling Washington’s keen interest in following up on this matter.

Observers speaking to the "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency note that Trump made a direct and pointed statement to Lebanese President General Joseph Aoun, urging him to build a state free from the influence of Hezbollah. This message carries multiple implications, particularly given the context in which it was made. President Aoun has already embarked on a path aligned with this vision, articulating it in public statements and initiating several government decisions that reflect key elements of his inaugural address.

According to political sources, the issue of Hezbollah's weapons, already under discussion in local dialogues, remains a complex matter shaped by internal dynamics. Still, Trump’s reference to a real opportunity to break free from Hezbollah’s grip is seen as serious, even if his tone lacked overt warnings. The focus of his visit may have been broader regional matters, yet he made a point of delivering these messages, signaling they could be reiterated if necessary.

The follow-up to Trump’s message is expected to come from the American envoy, whose upcoming meetings in Lebanon will likely touch on sensitive issues including disarmament, structural reforms, and the role of the Lebanese Armed Forces. These talks come as Lebanon continues to assert that Israel maintains its occupation of certain disputed areas.

Observers believe Trump’s reference to a time-sensitive opportunity is deliberate, and it's likely that Ortagus will echo this theme during her visit. 

The real question now is whether Lebanese officials are fully aware of the stakes, and the potential benefits, at play.