President Donald Trump’s senior adviser for Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, Massad Boulos, announced that the US-supported agreement between Lebanon and Israel is now moving into the implementation stage. Boulos described this development as a significant breakthrough that will unfold gradually with close coordination among the United States, Lebanon, and Israel. The agreement, considered historic, is the first of its kind between the two countries since the 1949 Armistice Agreement.
Following a meeting between Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House, Boulos highlighted the positive rapport between the leaders. Discussions during the meeting focused on various key areas, including security, economic cooperation, and support for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). Boulos emphasized the importance of implementing the framework agreement signed by Lebanon and Israel, acknowledging the challenges of the process and the determination to see it through.
Boulos clarified that the implementation of the agreement will be a gradual process rather than an immediate one. He mentioned ongoing coordination between the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the Lebanese armed forces, and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) regarding the redeployment of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. The agreement includes a verification mechanism to ensure the completion of each phase before proceeding to the next step.
Addressing questions about Israeli redeployment and Hezbollah’s military presence, Boulos explained the interconnected nature of disarmament and withdrawal, emphasizing a step-by-step approach. He praised the use of “pilot zones” in southern Lebanon as a strategic concept to facilitate phased implementation of the agreement. Boulos also underscored Washington’s support for Lebanon’s elected leadership and sovereignty, emphasizing a commitment to the success of the agreement.
