In the context of following up on recent events in Lebanon, particularly regarding the approval of a 60-day truce between Israel and Lebanon, the Lebanese-American Coordinating Committee (LACC) sent a position paper to the US administration.
The text is as follows:
“Lebanon stands at a pivotal moment following the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. While the cessation of hostilities brings immediate relief, it also presents significant challenges and opportunities for the nation to restore sovereignty, stabilize its political landscape and rebuild its economy. The Lebanese people overwhelmingly desire peace, stability and a country free from external interference.
However, solutions that do not address the root causes of Lebanon's instability will only provide a short reprieve. Without meaningful actions — such as curtailing Iran’s influence and preventing Hezbollah from rebuilding its capacity north of the Litani River — the cycle of violence is likely to erupt again.
The international community, particularly the United States and France, has a crucial role in supporting Lebanon during this critical period. Their engagement is essential to ensure the full implementation of UNSCRs 1559, 1680 and 1701, and to secure lasting peace and stability in the region.
Recommendations
To address these challenges and seize the opportunities presented by the ceasefire, the Lebanese-American Coordinating Committee (LACC) urges the United States and the international community to take the following actions:
1. Exert diplomatic pressure and provide necessary support to ensure the full enforcement of United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1559, 1680 and 1701, and to ensure that Hezbollah and all other armed militias surrender their weapons to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
2. Support an expanded mandate for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to monitor and enforce disarmament throughout the Lebanese territories, including areas north of the Litani River.
3. Reinforce the Lebanese government's exclusive authority over military and foreign policy decisions, as mandated by the Taif Agreement and the Lebanese Constitution. This includes curtailing Iran's and its allies’ influence in Lebanon by enforcing other international resolutions in the region, such as UNSCR 2254, bolstering existing sanctions and implementing new measures as necessary.
4. Continue to support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and Internal Security Forces (ISF) by providing training, equipment and financial assistance to enhance their capabilities. Empowering these institutions is vital for maintaining security, enforcing laws and ensuring the state's monopoly on the use of force throughout Lebanon.
5. Insisting on the Speaker of the Parliament to convene parliament and allow delegates to elect a president committed to the Lebanese Constitution and to upholding UNSCRs 1559, 1680 and 1701. The US can offer support for transparent electoral processes and consider applying targeted sanctions against individuals obstructing the electoral process.
Lebanon's path forward depends on decisive action to restore state sovereignty, implement international resolutions and address the root causes of instability. By embracing these recommendations and ensuring the implementation of international resolutions, the United States and the international community can assist Lebanon in overcoming current challenges, preventing future conflicts and securing a peaceful and prosperous future for its people.”
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