PRESS RELEASE – […] Today, the Governments of Israel and Lebanon made a bold decision to agree to a framework that builds a realistic path out of endless conflict. This agreement establishes a clear and structured process to restore Lebanon’s sovereignty, disarm Hizballah and dismantle its terrorist infrastructure, and enable Israel to return to its borders once that threat to its citizens is removed. It also creates a trilateral Military Coordination Group for Lebanon (MCG4L), facilitated by the United States, allowing the two sides to implement this Framework. For Lebanon, this Framework provides a genuine pathway out of a long crisis. For Israel, it creates a verifiable path to removing the persistent threat on its northern border.
The United States commends the courage of the two sovereign governments for taking this step to break the cycle of violence once and for all. The United States will remain fully engaged and commit significant resources, including an immediate $100 million in humanitarian assistance in coordination with the U.N.
“The United States also reaffirms its intent to improve the capability and capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to more effectively establish sovereignty throughout Lebanese territory. To that end, the Department of War is prepared to reimburse the LAF with more than $30 million under existing authorities and appropriations to support the President’s vision for an enduring peace in Lebanon.
We intend to work closely with our regional partners to implement this Framework and deliver a brighter, more secure future for Israel, Lebanon, and the whole Middle East.” (read more)