United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington will negotiate directly with Lebanon’s government. He made the remarks after arriving in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday during his Gulf tour.
Rubio stressed that Lebanon-Israel discussions remain separate from the recent US-Iran agreement. He added that Lebanon’s future should be decided by its sovereign government.
Rubio Outlines US Position on Lebanon
Rubio said he recently spoke with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. He also confirmed that US officials are currently working on the ground in Lebanon.
Furthermore, Rubio said Washington would discuss Iran’s support for Hezbollah during future talks with Tehran. However, he emphasized that Lebanon’s internal affairs would remain separate from those discussions.
The secretary of state also rejected any proposal allowing Iran to collect tolls in the Strait of Hormuz. He said international law does not permit countries to charge fees on international waterways.
Meanwhile, Rubio said lasting regional peace depends on ending attacks by Iran-backed groups. He added that future investment opportunities for Iran would depend on progress in addressing regional security concerns.
Israeli Media Reports New US Restrictions
Meanwhile, Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that Washington imposed new restrictions on Israeli military operations in Lebanon. Military analyst Amos Harel claimed the United States effectively secured a ceasefire after recent fighting.
According to the report, Israeli forces have reduced their presence in southern Lebanon. Border restrictions have also eased following the reported understanding.
Harel further alleged that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz withheld key details from the Israeli public. He claimed the government downplayed Washington’s role in limiting military operations.
The report also said President Donald Trump seeks greater stability in Lebanon. According to Harel, Washington hopes regional calm will support broader security arrangements across the Middle East.
