(MENAFN) US Special Envoy Tom Barrack warned on Monday that postponing Lebanon’s 2026 parliamentary elections could trigger political turmoil. Speaking on X, he said, “Postponing the 2026 elections under the pretext of war would ignite major chaos within Lebanon, fracturing an already fragile political system and reigniting sectarian distrust.”

Barrack suggested Hezbollah might delay elections to maintain its power, rebuild militarily, and reorganize politically. He warned that any postponement would heighten divisions among Christian, Sunni, and reformist blocs, potentially sparking nationwide unrest similar to the 2019 protests.

Parliamentary elections are scheduled for May to fill Lebanon’s 128-seat parliament. Barrack also urged Lebanon to separate from Hezbollah and complete its disarmament to restore full state control over armed forces.

Hezbollah has not commented on the envoy’s remarks. Under a 2024 truce, Israel was supposed to fully withdraw from five southern border outposts by January 2025, but troops remain in place.

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