(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BEIRUT, Aug 18 (KUNA) -- US Ambassador to Turkiye and Special Presidential Envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, stated Monday that the Lebanese government has taken the first step toward implementing the disarmament of Hezbollah and called on the Israeli occupation to take a reciprocal measure.
Speaking to reporters after meeting President Joseph Aoun, Barrack expressed optimism, saying that he believes in the coming weeks the region will see progress on many fronts, and added that the Lebanese government has taken the first step, and the Israeli occupation needs to follow with a similar action.
On the issue of the Israeli occupation's withdrawal or suspension of violations of the ceasefire agreement signed in November 2024, Barrack said that this is precisely the next step and emphasized the need for all parties to cooperate and avoid hostility or confrontation.
The Lebanese presidency said President Aoun told Barrack that, following Lebanon's stance on the agreed paper, other parties must now adhere to the contents of the joint declaration.
Aoun also called for increased support for the Lebanese army and accelerated international efforts to launch reconstruction in areas targeted by the Israeli occupation's attacks Barrack was accompanied on his visit by US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East Morgan Ortagus and US Ambassador to Lebanon Lisa Johnson.
Earlier on August, Lebanon's Cabinet approved the objectives outlined in the US-proposed plan to extend and consolidate the ceasefire between Lebanon and the Israeli occupation, originally declared on November 27, 2024, aiming to advance a comprehensive and lasting solution.
These objectives include restricting the possession of weapons exclusively to the state and gradually ending the armed presence of all non-governmental groups throughout Lebanon. The Lebanese army has been tasked with implementing a plan to centralize weapons with the designated authorities before the end of the year. (end) ayb

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