Washington Pressures Beirut on Hezbollah Disarmament

The United States is reportedly increasing pressure on Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah, as part of ongoing discussions aimed at halting Israel's military operations in the region. Sources informed Reuters that Lebanon must issue a formal cabinet decision committing to Hezbollah's disarmament before any further negotiations can proceed.

According to the sources, which include Lebanese diplomats and officials, the U.S. will withdraw its envoy, Thomas Barrack, from Beirut and cease mediation efforts without such a commitment. This includes exerting pressure on Israel to either stop airstrikes or pull troops from southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah, labeled a terrorist organization by the U.S. and other Western nations, has declined to completely disarm but signaled openness to scaling back its arsenal. Meanwhile, Lebanon's government is urged to pursue a cabinet decision soon, amid fears of intensified Israeli strikes.

(With inputs from agencies.)