Senior leaders from several delegations met on October 29 in Naqoura for the 12th session of the Pentalateral, focusing on the Lebanese Armed Forces’ (LAF) efforts to maintain a cessation of hostilities and advance disarmament initiatives in Lebanon.
The meeting was hosted by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and included Lt. Gen. Joseph Clearfield, who chairs the Mechanism, Counselor Morgan Ortagus, and senior representatives from each delegation. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to stability in Lebanon and decided to formalize future meetings, announcing that sessions 13 through 16 will take place before year’s end.
“Formalizing the meeting schedule ensures that all participants are aligned, informed, and ready to present transparent updates to the international community,” said Clearfield. “This predictability supports operational efficiency and builds the shared confidence and trust necessary to advance lasting peace in Lebanon.”
During the session, LAF officials provided an operational update describing a recent mission targeting an underground facility near Wadi Al-Aziyeh. The operation involved reconnaissance of the area with plans for further action at a later date. Clearfield praised LAF personnel for their conduct.
“The LAF’s professionalism, and commitment is notable,” Clearfield said. “I have observed them conduct a wide range of operations, from providing escorts for olive harvesting to carrying out complex operations to locate, dismantle, and neutralize an underground facility believed to be used by malign actors. Their performance reflects the strength of Lebanon’s Armed Forces and their resolve to secure their nation’s future.”
The group addressed ongoing efforts to address violations of cessation agreements. They agreed this topic would remain a regular agenda item at future meetings as part of collective measures aimed at preserving peace under existing frameworks.
“We continue to monitor developments in Lebanon and welcome the government’s decision to bring all weapons under state control by the end of the year,” Ortagus said. “The LAF must now fully implement its plan.” The Mechanism remains central in monitoring, verifying, and supporting enforcement of commitments made by both Israel and Lebanon.