Trump's Commitment to Lebanon and Military Support
In a significant diplomatic meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump expressed unwavering support for Lebanon and its military, signaling a new chapter in U.S.-Lebanese relations. During his discussions with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Trump emphasized his readiness to facilitate direct communications with Hezbollah, should Aoun request such a dialogue. This commitment comes at a time when Lebanon has faced ongoing challenges and political instability, and Trump described the relationship between the U.S. and Lebanon as 'very good,' underscoring Aoun's esteemed status among U.S. officials.
As part of his support, Trump outlined plans for the Lebanese army to take greater control over southern villages, a move that aligns with the broader framework of the U.S.-sponsored agreement between Beirut and Tel Aviv. He highlighted the existence of 'concrete plans' aimed at bolstering the capabilities of the Lebanese military. Furthermore, Trump indicated that the discussions would also delve into the 'trial phase' of establishing a safe zone in Lebanon, thereby fostering stability in the region.
Warnings Against Iran and Houthi Threats
Alongside his support for Lebanon, Trump issued stark warnings directed at Iran and its allies, including the Houthis. He reiterated that the United States would not tolerate the reactivation of any Iranian nuclear facilities, threatening a 'strong and imminent strike' on the strategic site known as 'Jabal al-Fahs.' Trump portrayed the ongoing negotiations with Iran as complex and underscored that the U.S. is committed to diminishing Iran's military capabilities, asserting that Tehran should not possess nuclear weapons now or in the future. He claimed that the military actions taken by the U.S. have inflicted significant damage on Iran's nuclear potential, boasting that the Iranian regime would require decades to rebuild what has been lost due to American interventions.
In a pointed remark, Trump declared, 'We are not done with Iran yet,' indicating that any attempts by Tehran to revive its nuclear ambitions would be met with decisive military action. He further elaborated on the ongoing communications behind the scenes between Washington and Tehran, suggesting that while the Iranians are eager for dialogue, the U.S. will only engage when they are prepared for a meaningful discussion. Moreover, Trump reiterated his administration's commitment to ensuring maritime security in the face of Iranian threats, specifically regarding the Strait of Hormuz, and warned of a significant military response should Iran continue to target commercial shipping.
Lastly, addressing the Houthi situation, Trump asserted that any aggression in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait or the Red Sea would prompt a robust U.S. response, recalling past military operations against the Houthis which had achieved notable success. He made it clear that any developments in these critical maritime regions would compel the United States to act decisively, ensuring that the safety of maritime navigation remains a top priority.
As reported by arab48.com.
