Washington, DC – The US Embassy issued a statement indicating that senior leaders held the twelfth meeting of the Cessation of Hostilities Monitoring Committee (CCC) on October 29 in Naqoura. The meeting reviewed the Lebanese Armed Forces’ progress in maintaining the cessation of hostilities arrangements and advancing disarmament efforts in Lebanon.
The embassy explained that the session, hosted by UNIFIL, included US General Joseph Clearfield, the committee chairman, and advisor Morgan Ortagus. Senior representatives from all delegations also participated.
The statement affirmed that all members were committed to supporting stability in Lebanon. They agreed to organize meetings more systematically, announcing that the next meetings of the committee, scheduled for the 13th to 16th of the year, would be held before the end of the year.
General Clearfield said: “Formalizing the meeting schedule ensures that all participants are in agreement, fully informed, and prepared to provide transparent updates to the international community. It also enhances operational efficiency and builds the shared trust necessary to achieve lasting peace in Lebanon.”
General Clearfield added that the Lebanese Army’s professionalism and commitment were “remarkable,” citing the various operations it had conducted, from protecting olive harvests to dismantling underground facilities believed to have been used by malicious actors. He praised the army’s performance, which he said reflected its strength and determination to secure the future of its nation.
The statement also noted that the army provided a practical update on the operation to clear an underground facility near Wadi al-Aziziyah. A follow-up visit to the facility was planned, and opportunities for further mitigation of violations of the cessation of hostilities agreement were discussed. It was emphasized that this item would always be part of the agenda for future meetings.
Chancellor Morgan Ortagus said: “We continue to monitor developments in Lebanon and welcome the government’s decision to put all weapons under state control by the end of the year. The Lebanese army must now fully implement its plan.”
The statement concluded by noting that the Cessation of Hostilities Monitoring Committee (the Mechanism) continues to play a pivotal role. Its mission is to monitor, verify, and contribute to the implementation of the commitments made by both Israel and Lebanon, in order to ensure peace and stability in the region.
