US Middle East envoy Tom Barrack called for continued dialogue and responsibility from Lebanon's leaders following a meeting with Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rai on Wednesday.
Barrack on Wednesday reaffirmed Washington’s call for the exclusive control of arms by the Lebanese state, emphasizing that this principle is rooted in law and must be implemented without delay.
Speaking after a meeting with Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rai, on the final leg of a three-day visit to Lebanon, Barrack said that any resolution to Lebanon’s ongoing crises must come from within. “A decision is required from the cabinet to confine weapons and halt attacks,” he said, underscoring the need for executive leadership in curbing the presence of non-state arms.
“President Donald Trump wants Lebanon to succeed,” Barrack added, calling for patience and continued dialogue to avoid further escalation. “We will continue the dialogue with those not yet at the table, and I will return,” he continued.
He also praised Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri’s ongoing efforts, but stressed that the ultimate responsibility lies with the government.
He noted that international support – whether from the US, Gulf states, or neighboring countries – depends on the Lebanese government’s ability to restore internal stability. “It is up to the Lebanese government to decide what must be done,” Barrack said. “Without stability, no one will come to offer help.”
The American envoy described his mission as a candid mediation effort, noting the challenges involved. “We have been working on the process for four weeks and it is a complicated path,” he said, indicating that he “understands the difficulties.”
Barrack’s tone, however, remained optimistic. He described his visit to Bkerki as one of encouragement and consultation. “The message I bring is one of hope,” he said. “I came to see the Patriarch and seek his advice.”
US Ambassador Lisa Johnson was present during the meeting with Patriarch al-Rai, who told Barrack that the Lebanese people are awaiting the outcome of his mission. “I don’t know what the end will be,” Barrack responded.
Notably, Barrack is scheduled to leave Lebanon today for France, where he will continue discussions with French officials on the situation in Syria.
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