U.S Backs Lebanese Stability, Undeterred by Hezbollah and Iran

Diplomatic Messages Question Lebanon’s Government Stagnation

English version based on the Arabic-language article published by Akhbar al-Yawm

Multiple diplomatic messages from Western and Arab capitals have been delivered to Beirut in recent weeks, expressing growing concern over the noticeable slowdown in the government's performance, particularly in areas related to security and Hezbollah’s weapons, following a period of momentum earlier this year, a well-informed diplomatic source told the "Akhbar al-Yawm" agency.

The source said Lebanon’s internal gridlock is delaying crucial reform and recovery initiatives, adding that political momentum seems to have been stalled in deference to Hezbollah’s influence.

This shift has become increasingly visible, the source noted, citing Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s recent remarks in the UAE, where he pledged Lebanon’s commitment to reclaiming its state institutions and sovereignty: Lebanon is rising from the rubble of its crises, our project is founded on the parallel tracks of reform and sovereignty. Sovereignty requires that weapons be held solely by the state and that Lebanon move beyond the duality of arms that once created a duality in decision-making".

Foreign Minister Youssef Raji echoed this stance describing Hezbollah as "an illegitimate, armed group operating outside the legal framework", the source added.

In parallel, President Joseph Aoun met with a delegation from Hezbollah’s parliamentary bloc, headed by MP Mohammad Raad. According to the source, the discussion included Hezbollah’s arsenal, in addition to Palestinian arms in Lebanon.

The source believes Hezbollah is attempting to prolong discussions in a bid to delay any serious action, in line with Iranian guidance. "Tehran may be willing to reduce support to proxies elsewhere, in Iraq, Yemen or Gaza, but not in Lebanon. Hezbollah remains Iran’s most strategic asset", the source said. "Even if official routes are blocked, Iran will find ways to sustain the group financially and militarily".

Despite speculation, the source said that direct, substantive negotiations between Lebanon and the U.S. have yet to begin. Meanwhile, Tehran appears to be calculating that Washington’s interest in the region will fade, especially if the U.S. prioritizes Ukraine and strategic competition with China.

However, the diplomat cautioned against underestimating long-term U.S. engagement in the Middle East. He pointed to former President Donald Trump’s recent visits to Gulf states and signs of renewed Western interest in Syria, including the reintroduction of Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, as indicators that Washington still views the region as strategically vital.

"There’s a clear push to stabilize Lebanon, even if it happens under external pressure", the source said, adding that the U.S. views a stable Lebanon as essential to Syria’s post-war reconstruction. With its relatively developed infrastructure, Lebanon is expected to serve as a logistical and commercial base for international companies and workers involved in rebuilding efforts.

Asked about potential consequences if the political stalemate persists, the source ruled out a new civil war but warned of alternative forms of pressure. "We may see a return to targeted assassinations against key Hezbollah figures, an attempt to force the group into concessions over its weapons", the source said.

He concluded by urging Lebanese leaders to recognize the current moment as a strategic opportunity. "The region is moving. Lebanon must move with it, or risk being left behind".