The American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL) welcomes the Lebanese Cabinet’s momentous decision to endorse the objectives of a US proposal for the full implementation of the November 2024 ceasefire agreement. ATFL commends President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam for their bold leadership and the Lebanese Cabinet for taking this courageous and necessary step toward restoring the state’s exclusive authority over arms.
The US proposal aims to extend and stabilize the ceasefire by securing a sequence of mutually reinforcing measures. On August 7th, the Lebanese government issued a decree committing to Hezbollah’s full disarmament by year’s end. In return, Israel will cease all ground, air, and maritime military operations. The plan also calls for the complete disarmament of all militias and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory within 120 days. The United States, France, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia will assist in strengthening the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to enforce the agreement and protect Lebanon’s sovereignty, and will prepare an international economic conference to support Lebanon’s recovery and reconstruction.
“This is a historic step forward for Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability,” said Edward Gabriel, ATFL President. “It deserves serious support from the international community. At this time, as Lebanon’s leadership has come together at a critical juncture, the United States and its allies should work to encourage adherence and follow-through by all parties, whilst bolstering funding for the LAF to carry out its mission, and helping accelerate the international commitment to Lebanon’s recovery and reconstruction.”
This action marks a pivotal moment in Lebanon’s effort to reclaim full sovereignty, with the LAF as its sole guarantor. The months ahead will benefit from sustained US leadership and international pressure to ensure full implementation of the agreement. ATFL urges the US to send a strong signal of support by prioritizing the appropriation of necessary funds to the LAF to carry out its mission. France, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are likewise encouraged to join the US in strengthening the LAF and advancing the timetable for the reconstruction conference—provided both parties are meeting the agreed timelines.
By launching this time-bound process, the Lebanese government has signaled to its citizens and the world a renewed commitment to national unity, the rule of law, and regional stability. ATFL calls on the international community to stand firmly with Lebanon by sustaining diplomatic engagement, enforcement, and financial and security assistance to ensure this initiative’s success.
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