International
US Declares Hezbollah’s Role in Lebanese Government a ‘Red Line’
- U.S. warns Lebanon that Hezbollah’s role in government is a “red line.”
- Ortagus reaffirms Washington’s stance, insisting Hezbollah must not hold political power.
- Lebanon’s cabinet formation stalls as Hezbollah’s allies demand key ministerial positions.
The United States has reiterated its stance that Hezbollah must not be part of Lebanon’s government, emphasizing that its involvement is a “red line.”
During a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Friday, Washington’s Deputy Middle East Envoy, Morgan Ortagus, stated that she was “not afraid” of the armed group, claiming it had been “defeated militarily.” However, she stressed that the U.S. remains firm in opposing Hezbollah’s continued role in Lebanon’s political system.
Hezbollah, a Shia Muslim group backed by Iran, has seen its influence challenged following Israel’s recent military campaign in Lebanon but continues to play a significant role in the country’s political landscape.
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“We have set clear red lines … Hezbollah will not be allowed to terrorize the Lebanese people, including through participation in the government,” Ortagus told reporters.
Her visit marks the first by a senior U.S. official since President Donald Trump took office and since Aoun’s election as Lebanon’s president. It also comes amid ongoing political deadlock over cabinet formation, where government positions are distributed along sectarian lines. Hezbollah’s political ally, the Amal Movement, has insisted on approving all Shia Muslim ministers, further stalling the process.
Ortagus was widely expected to deliver a firm warning to Lebanese officials regarding Hezbollah’s role.
Meanwhile, the U.S. and France brokered a ceasefire in late November to end hostilities, setting a 60-day deadline for Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon, for Hezbollah to remove its fighters and weapons, and for Lebanese troops to take control of the area.
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However, Israeli forces have continued operations in border villages, delaying the withdrawal process. The deadline has now been extended to February 18.
Ortagus referenced the new timeline but did not explicitly confirm whether Israeli forces would fully withdraw.
“February 18 will be the date for redeployment when the [Israeli] troops will finish their redeployment, and of course, the [Lebanese] troops will come in behind them. We are very committed to that firm date,” she said.
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