The United States aims to exploit the conflict in Lebanon to curb Hezbollah’s power and support the election of a new president. While Saudi Arabia is backing the U.S. initiative, Egypt and Qatar have expressed doubts about its feasibility and the implications of foreign intervention. Key Lebanese leaders advocate for political elections yet also support Hezbollah’s resistance against Israel, complicating the situation further.
The United States is attempting to leverage the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, particularly the Israeli offensive against Hezbollah, as a strategic opportunity to reshape the political landscape of the country. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has discussed this initiative with leaders from Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. The plan involves dismantling Hezbollah’s political influence and facilitating the election of a new Lebanese president. This initiative has garnered support from Saudi Arabia, but Egypt and Qatar remain skeptical, expressing concerns about the feasibility of eliminating Hezbollah and the potential repercussions of foreign interference on Lebanon’s already fragile political environment. Moreover, analysts suggest that any individual or group perceived as attempting to seize power following Israeli military actions may face rejection from the Lebanese populace. Figures like Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, although advocating for presidential elections, have also shown appreciation for Hezbollah’s role in resisting Israeli advances. The situation remains complex, with Hezbollah’s Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem firmly opposing any changes in the political framework, stressing the necessity of the organization’s continued resilience amidst conflict.
The recent U.S. initiative emerges against the backdrop of long-standing political instability in Lebanon, characterized by significant sectarian divides and the overwhelming influence of Hezbollah. The ongoing conflict with Israel and Hezbollah’s military presence has complicated Lebanon’s governance, making it difficult for any significant political reforms to take root. The Biden administration perceives the current military engagement as a pivotal moment to challenge Hezbollah’s dominance and to recalibrate Lebanon’s political system; however, regional partners express caution regarding the potential volatility that such interventions could evoke, harkening back to historical civil strife in Lebanon.
In conclusion, the U.S. strategy to capitalize on the current conflict in Lebanon represents a complex interplay of geopolitical interests, involving key regional players and the intrinsic challenges posed by the existing political framework. While there exists some support for broad changes in Lebanese governance, prevailing skepticism from influential regional actors, coupled with local resistance, could hinder the U.S.’s ambitions for reform. The situation in Lebanon remains tenuous, with inherent risks of both internal discord and external retaliation.
Original Source: www.haaretz.com
