US envoy Barrack meets Lebanon’s Aoun, highlights next steps
3 Min Read
US envoy Tom Barrack met Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun, praising reforms and addressing Hezbollah's weapons, Israeli cooperation, and cabinet decisions.
-
US Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack speaks during a press conference after his meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the presidential palace, in Baabda, east of Beirut, Lebanon, on August 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)
US Special Envoy Tom Barrack met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Monday, commending Lebanon for "significant steps forward" and expressing optimism for progress in the near future.
"We will see progress in the coming weeks, meaning a better life for the Lebanese people and neighboring countries... and later we will witness a roadmap for a different kind of dialogue between Lebanon and its neighbors," Barrack said.
He noted that Lebanon’s reforms and initial decisions have set the stage for broader cooperation and regional stability, emphasizing that the success of the process requires reciprocal action, adding that: "The Lebanese government has taken the first step, and now Israel must take a reciprocal step."
He clarified that "there was no American proposal directed at Israel," stressing instead that Washington’s role was focused on "implementing an agreement that was violated."
When asked about Hezbollah’s refusal to hand over its weapons, Barrack underscored that the matter is an internal Lebanese issue, saying, "We are not considering issuing any threats. Dealing with Hezbollah is a Lebanese procedure, and our role has been advisory."
Barrack added that the next phase would include working with the Lebanese government to restore prosperity while exploring avenues for regional cooperation involving both "Israel" and Iran.
Lebanese cabinet and army role in arms monopoly
On August 5, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced that the Lebanese Army had been tasked with drafting an implementation plan to achieve the state’s monopoly over arms. The plan is due before the Council of Ministers no later than August 31.
Two days later, on August 7, the Lebanese Cabinet approved the broad objectives outlined in the US envoy’s paper. Information Minister Paul Morcos noted that detailed discussions would begin only after the army submits its proposed plan.
Barrack reiterated his confidence in Lebanon’s ability to move forward with reforms, stressing that upcoming steps would involve deeper cooperation between Lebanon and its neighbors, with the ultimate goal of restoring prosperity and ensuring long-term security.
As the US envoy's Lebanon talks continue, attention will now turn to how Beirut, Tel Aviv, and regional actors approach the sensitive issues of security, sovereignty, and economic recovery.
