Beirut: Lebanon’s political and military leadership moved to contain rising tensions with Washington and Tel Aviv after Army Commander General Rudolf Haykal postponed his visit to the United States. The visit faced cancellation after American officials objected to a recent army statement on Israeli violations along the southern border.
Lebanese officials said the US cancelled scheduled meetings at the White House and with members of Congress. The objection centered on the army’s warning about repeated Israeli breaches of Lebanese sovereignty. Military sources said Haykal delayed the trip to avoid an unproductive visit and to wait for clearer political conditions.
The army’s statement accused Israel of escalating border tensions, obstructing the army’s deployment in the south, and attacking a UNIFIL patrol. It also urged friendly governments to intervene due to the intensity of Israeli actions. Tel Aviv holds five positions inside Lebanon and continues airstrikes that target areas where Hezbollah operates.
The United States has provided more than three billion dollars in support to the Lebanese Armed Forces over two decades. Washington says the assistance helps strengthen state institutions in a country where Hezbollah retains influence. Under the ceasefire terms brokered by the US and France, Lebanese forces are responsible for removing unauthorized weapons in areas south of the Litani River.
Israeli officials accuse the Lebanese army of limited action against Hezbollah’s infrastructure. Israeli media reported pressure on the army to raid private properties in search of weapons. Lebanese authorities rejected the request because such operations need legal warrants.
US Senators Lindsey Graham and Joni Ernst increased pressure with public criticism. Graham said the army’s leadership made American support difficult. Ernst said Haykal failed to take steps to disarm Hezbollah.
Military sources said the army continues its duties despite limited resources. They reported the deployment of 9,000 soldiers south of the Litani and ongoing efforts to enforce state control over arms. American sources expressed hope for a future visit once reforms move forward.
