Hezbollah's Disarmament Dilemma: U.S. Demands and Middle East Tensions

The U.S. has urged Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah in exchange for halting Israeli military operations. A roadmap proposed by U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack outlines disarmament and improved Syria ties. Lebanese officials prepare a response amid Hezbollah's financial strains and regional power shifts.

As tensions mount, Lebanese officials are drafting a response to U.S. demands for Hezbollah to disarm. The proposal, aiming to halt Israeli military actions, involves a phased disarmament in exchange for withdrawing Israeli troops from southern Lebanon.

U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack shared this roadmap with Lebanese authorities, urging for a response by July 1. The plan also involves UN oversight for prisoner releases and requires unanimous Lebanese government approval. Washington insists on disarmament before aiding in Lebanon's reconstruction.

Hezbollah, facing financial strain and regional pressure, remains uncommitted to disarming. The group's leader, Naim Qassem, reiterated resistance to U.S. and Israeli pressure, urging Lebanese solidarity against foreign intervention.

(With inputs from agencies.)