The U.S. is pushing for an "unthinkable" plan to disarm Hezbollah, signaling a rare convergence of U.S., Israeli, and Saudi Arabian interests in weakening the Iran-backed group. This diplomatic offensive, led by U.S. Special Envoy Thomas Barrack, offers Lebanon significant economic and security incentives. The plan reportedly includes calls for Lebanon to commit to disarming Hezbollah by the end of 2025, in exchange for Israel halting military operations and withdrawing from five contested positions in southern Lebanon.
Under the proposed U.S. roadmap, Phase 1 requires the Lebanese government to issue a decree within 15 days committing to Hezbollah's full disarmament by December 31, 2025. Israel would simultaneously cease ground, air, and sea military operations. Phase 2, within 60 days, would see Lebanon begin implementing the disarmament plan, including government approval of a detailed Lebanese army deployment plan to secure all arms under state authority. Phase 4, within 120 days, mandates the dismantling of Hezbollah's remaining heavy weapons, including missiles and drones.
The U.S. proposal also includes resolving prisoner issues through indirect talks and permanently demarcating Lebanon's borders with Israel. In return for Hezbollah's disarmament, Washington has offered to assist with the reconstruction of southern Lebanon and to revitalize the country's debt-ridden economy. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, while committed to state monopoly on force, have expressed concerns about potential sectarian conflict if disarmament precedes a full Israeli withdrawal and halt to attacks.
Hezbollah has not publicly responded to the proposal, but its leader has indicated a need to retain some weapons for defense. Despite this, sources suggest the group is considering reducing its arsenal, though not fully disarming. The U.S. is applying significant pressure on Beirut to issue a formal cabinet decision committing to disarmament before negotiations can proceed further, with U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack indicating he would not return to Beirut without this commitment. This marks a new phase in U.S. engagement, with Barrack even expressing satisfaction with Lebanon's initial response, which detailed conditions for disarmament, including a full Israeli withdrawal.
