Beirut: Deputy U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Morgan Ortagus dubbed Tuesday Hezbollah a "cancer," after she ended a diplomatic visit to Lebanon where she met with President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Ortagus remarked on the devastating impact of the past decade on Lebanon, highlighting the financial crisis, the port explosion, and the influence of militias, particularly Hezbollah. She attributed to Hezbollah and Iran the responsibility for a devastating war with Israel, which she said had "catastrophic consequences."
Ortagus emphasized the plight of the people in southern Lebanon who were displaced and forced into a war they did not want, urging them to reject those who pursue conflict with neighboring countries and instead seek a brighter future.
The U.S. diplomat described Hezbollah as "a designated terrorist organization with a lot of American blood on their hands." She advocated for a transformative change in Lebanon, calling for the disarmament of Hezbollah, likening it to cutting out cancer to prevent its spread.
Expressing hope for generational change, Ortagus stated that with the right leadership, Lebanon could be saved. She expressed confidence in President Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam's potential to spearhead this change.
Ortagus highlighted the longstanding support from the U.S. for the Lebanese Army, asserting that they possess the capability to protect Lebanon, contingent on political resolve.
In her discussions with Lebanese leaders, Ortagus praised the formation of the new Lebanese cabinet, describing it as "excellent" and free from "party affiliations." She was encouraged by the reform-mindedness of President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam, despite acknowledging the dire financial situation in Lebanon.