Overview
- Speaking in Bahrain, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey estimated Hezbollah fields about 40,000 fighters and holds 15,000–20,000 rockets and missiles.
- He described Lebanon as a failed state, noting that electricity, water and education in parts of the south are provided by Hezbollah rather than the government.
- He said Gulf states signaled readiness to invest up to $10 billion in southern Lebanon if Hezbollah disarms and the country reduces Iranian influence.
- He warned that coercive disarmament could fuel internal discord and called for carefully sequenced incentives, while stressing no funds would be forthcoming while Hezbollah remains armed.
- Separately, Israeli officials warned Lebanon they would target Beirut’s Dahiya if disarmament does not proceed, as Israel reported recent strikes on Hezbollah positions.