US Deputy Middle East Envoy Morgan Ortagus emphasized the U.S. stance against Hezbollah's involvement in the Lebanese government during her visit. Despite Hezbollah’s weakened state following recent conflict, it still holds significant political leverage. Ortagus stated the U.S. has drawn clear red lines to prevent any terrorist influences by Hezbollah in Lebanon, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding the stalled cabinet formation process amidst sectarian politics. Her remarks follow a ceasefire deal concerning Israeli troop withdrawals, which now has a new deadline for redeployment.
We have set clear red lines that [Hezbollah] won't be able to terrorise the Lebanese people, and that includes by being a part of the government, Ortagus told reporters.
Ortagus is the first senior US official to visit Lebanon since US President Donald Trump took office and since Aoun was elected president.
Her visit comes amid a stalled cabinet formation process in Lebanon, where government posts are apportioned on sectarian lines.
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