Steve Witkoff, U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, has rejected reports of discussions with Lebanese officials as false. He affirmed Lebanon’s sovereignty and the U.S. commitment to support its government. The controversy arises from a report suggesting U.S. dissatisfaction with Lebanese handling of Hezbollah and calls for direct negotiations with Israel.
U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Mr. Steve Witkoff, has publicly refuted claims regarding purported discussions with an unidentified Lebanese official in Doha, characterizing the allegations as “baseless, false and misleading.” His office stressed that spreading unfounded rumors only creates confusion and undermines the integrity of media outlets.
Witkoff stated, “Lebanon is an independent nation that will make its own sovereign decisions; we trust this government’s ability to do so.” He further reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting the Lebanese government, led by President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, in their ongoing efforts to enhance state sovereignty and implement vital reforms.
The contentious report, which appeared in An-Nahar, implied dissatisfaction within the U.S. administration regarding the performance of Lebanese officials in addressing Hezbollah. It allegedly quoted Witkoff indicating that Lebanon may be urged to enter direct political negotiations with Israel, with the involvement of a civilian representative backed by Minister Ron Dermer, closely aligned with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approach.
In summary, Steve Witkoff has firmly denied rumors surrounding discussions with Lebanese officials regarding negotiations with Israel, asserting Lebanon’s sovereignty and decision-making capabilities. His statements reflect the United States’ support for the Lebanese government as it navigates critical challenges and reforms. Furthermore, the original report’s implications about U.S. dissatisfaction with Lebanon’s dealings with Hezbollah conflict with Witkoff’s position of support for Lebanese governance.
Original Source: naharnet.com
