U.S. Envoy Calls for Hezbollah's Exclusion from Lebanon's New Government

Morgan Ortagus emphasizes Hezbollah's military defeat by Israel and outlines U.S. 'red lines' during her visit to Beirut.

U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East Morgan Ortagus stated that Hezbollah, weakened by its military defeat to Israel, should not be part of Lebanon's new government.
Ortagus met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, urging reforms and anti-corruption measures while reiterating U.S. demands for Hezbollah's exclusion.
The 14-month Israel-Hezbollah conflict ended in November 2023 with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, but disputes over troop withdrawals and compliance have delayed implementation until February 18.
Lebanon's political system, structured on sectarian power-sharing, faces challenges as Hezbollah and its allies demand influence in the cabinet formation process.
Hezbollah and its supporters have rejected Ortagus' comments as interference in Lebanon's sovereignty, while Israel continues targeted strikes in southern Lebanon, citing ceasefire violations.