🇱🇧 As U.S. envoy Tom Barak prepares for a pivotal visit to Beirut next week, Lebanese political and military circles are bracing for a critical response from Hezbollah regarding the American proposal tied to border calm and disarmament. With Barak expected in the capital for decisive talks on Monday and Tuesday, momentum is building around the possibility of a positive Lebanese reply — one signaling greater flexibility from Hezbollah.
According to leaks, Hezbollah may agree to gradually reduce its arsenal, including missiles and drones, in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and guarantees for reconstruction. However, the party reportedly rejects a fixed timeline for disarmament. Reports from Reuters and Al Hadath suggest the party may adopt a “step-for-step” formula, contingent on security guarantees and international monitoring.
🇸🇦 Saudi envoy Prince Faisal bin Farhan has continued his meetings with Lebanese factions, underscoring Riyadh’s demand for practical progress. Meanwhile, France condemned Israel’s strikes on Lebanese soil and reaffirmed that only the Lebanese Army is authorized to handle disarmament, to be overseen by UNIFIL.
Internally, President Joseph Aoun and PM Nawaf Salam met to finalize Lebanon’s stance. Politicians like Gebran Bassil emphasized that Israeli withdrawal and protection of Lebanon’s natural resources must accompany any disarmament plan, while also urging Hezbollah to seize this opportunity.
Militarily, Israel escalated attacks with a car strike in Khalde, raids across South Lebanon, and house demolitions using infiltration teams in Kfarkila and Mays al-Jabal, marking a dangerous turn in their engagement tactics.