Morgan Ortagus, the Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, addressed the media at the Presidential Palace following her meeting with President Aoun in Lebanon. Ortagus expressed gratitude to President Aoun and the Lebanese government for hosting her, highlighting that Lebanon was her first international visit in her new role.
During her address, Ortagus emphasized the strong ties between the United States and Lebanon. "I think it’s important to note that my very first trip outside of the United States is to Lebanon," she stated. She praised the Lebanese people and their diaspora in the United States for their enthusiasm about Lebanon's future, attributing this optimism partly to Hizballah's defeat by Israel.
Ortagus acknowledged Israel's efforts against Hizballah and credited Lebanese leaders committed to ending corruption and ensuring Hizballah remains disarmed. She also mentioned U.S. pressure on Iran as part of efforts to curb its influence in the region. "That ends with President Trump," she said regarding Iran's past actions.
Addressing concerns about Hizballah's potential influence within the government, Ortagus responded confidently: "Well, I’m certainly not afraid of Hizballah...the end of Hizballah’s reign of terror in Lebanon and around the world has started."
Regarding Israeli military presence in south Lebanon, Ortagus confirmed a commitment to a redeployment date of February 18th, coordinated with both Lebanese and Israeli governments.
Ortagus concluded by expressing ongoing commitment from the U.S. towards Lebanon's development: "We want to get to Lebanon back to that place where it is, the place and hope of the Middle East."
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