Trump Pledges Support for Lebanon in Pursuit of Peace with Israel

POLICY WIRE — Washington, DC — US President Donald Trump pledged on Tuesday to provide significant support to Lebanon as its president, Joseph Aoun, requested Washington’s backing for efforts to disarm Hezbollah and achieve peace with Israel.

Aoun, the first Lebanese president to be invited to Washington since 2009, sought political support and continued assistance for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), which have started deploying in southern areas under a US-backed framework agreement with Israel.

“We need to support the LAF,” Aoun stated, emphasizing the importance of the Lebanese army in maintaining stability and pursuing peace initiatives.

Trump, in response, affirmed his commitment to helping Lebanon navigate its complex political landscape. “We will help Lebanon a lot,” he assured, highlighting the strategic importance of the region and the US’s role in fostering peace.

The meeting between Trump and Aoun underscores the ongoing efforts to stabilize Lebanon, a country grappling with internal strife and external pressures. The US has historically played a significant role in the region, and its support for Lebanon’s army is seen as crucial for maintaining security and advancing peace talks with Israel.

The deployment of the LAF in southern Lebanon is part of a broader initiative to implement the US-backed framework agreement, aimed at disarming militant groups like Hezbollah and paving the way for a lasting peace with Israel. This agreement is considered fragile, given the volatile nature of the region — and the complex dynamics at play.

Aoun’s visit to Washington signifies a renewed focus on Lebanon’s security — and political stability. The support from the US, particularly from President Trump, is expected to bolster Lebanon’s efforts in achieving a peaceful resolution to its long-standing conflicts.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)