Key facts
- Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump.
- The meeting aims to secure Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
- A framework agreement was announced on June 26, outlining Israeli withdrawal and Hezbollah disarmament.
- The U.S. supports the agreement and its full implementation.
- Lebanon seeks international financial support for its military to assert control.
Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington to advance a framework agreement aimed at de-escalating tensions with Israel and establishing long-term calm in the region. The meeting, part of Aoun's four-day visit, comes amid ongoing direct talks between Lebanon and Israel, mediated by the U.S.
The core of the agreement, announced on June 26, involves the withdrawal of Israeli troops from occupied areas in southern Lebanon and the disarmament of Hezbollah. Lebanon hopes this will allow its military to assert full control over regions previously influenced by the militant group. The U.S. has expressed support for the agreement's implementation, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that Washington will continue to endorse it.
Operations in three villages designated as a 'pilot zone' have reportedly begun, though details remain scarce. Skeptics in Lebanon worry about potential civil conflict if a military confrontation with Hezbollah ensues. U.S. officials, including Rubio, have emphasized that resolving the Hezbollah issue is crucial for lasting peace and have also highlighted the need for U.S. and international investment in Lebanon's infrastructure to strengthen the state.
Despite signals of progress, Israeli troops have not yet withdrawn from controlled areas, with Israeli officials indicating plans to maintain a long-term security zone. Hezbollah, meanwhile, has dismissed direct talks with Israel, preferring U.S. engagement with Iran to end the conflict. Lebanon's leadership, while critical of Israel's military actions, insists that Israeli withdrawal and financial support for its army are vital for security.