The American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL) welcomes the United States’ recent $230 million assistance package to Lebanon as a clear testament to the enduring US commitment to Lebanon’s stability, sovereignty, and reform. This support underscores the US belief that Lebanon’s future lies in reclaiming state authority and advancing toward full sovereignty and peace with its neighbors.
“With Phase I of the US proposal now underway and focused on establishing a zone free of Hezbollah’s weapons south of the Litani River, implementation must move swiftly and steadily,” said ATFL President Ed Gabriel. “The rapid and credible completion of this phase,” he added, “will mark an essential step toward restoring state control over all Lebanese territory and securing lasting peace along the southern border.”
At the same time, without tangible progress on critical governance reforms, Lebanon risks further delaying the large-scale reconstruction and recovery assistance it urgently needs. Disarmament and reform must advance in parallel. A credible reform process that strengthens institutions, enforces transparency, and rebuilds confidence in the financial system is essential to reviving legitimate economic activity and dismantling the illicit networks that have flourished amid Lebanon’s cash-based economy and erosion of state authority. As arms are brought under the sole authority of the state, effective governance and a functioning economy must fill the vacuum, ensuring that reconstruction, investment, and revived economic activity can sustain the country’s recovery.
Only through institutional stability, transparency, and renewed investor confidence can Lebanon attract the capital needed to jumpstart growth and place the country on a sustainable path to recovery. With the United States and the international community ready to assist, Lebanon must now do its part by advancing long-delayed reforms, upholding its commitments to sovereignty, and strengthening the rule of law. Meanwhile, regional stability will hinge on all parties honoring their obligations under the ceasefire framework, including continued engagement by the United States, Israel, and regional partners to uphold their respective commitments and foster the conditions for reconstruction, security, and lasting peace along the border.
During its recent visit to Lebanon, the ATFL delegation met with senior government officials, including President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, as well as political leaders and technical experts from across the political spectrum to discuss these urgent priorities. The meetings reflected an understanding of the challenges ahead and, importantly, a sense of commitment by the Lebanese government to advance reform, restore state authority, and deliver on the promises of sovereignty and stability. ATFL views this political will as an encouraging signal that Lebanon’s leaders recognize the stakes and the opportunity to move the country toward recovery and lasting peace with the support of the US and its international partners.
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