Washington, United States – A joint statement issued by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the United States emphasized the necessity of maintaining stability in Lebanon, highlighting the importance of insulating the Lebanese negotiation track from any regional tensions or conflicts. The statement clarified that the current phase requires continued diplomatic efforts to ensure the sovereignty of the Lebanese state, free from preconditions or the repercussions of neighboring crises.
Supporting the Negotiation Track in Lebanon
The parties signatory to the statement stressed that political dialogue remains the only and best way to address all challenges facing the Lebanese path. The Gulf states and Washington reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the negotiation process from any complications that might arise from regional intersections, with a focus on strengthening the country’s security and stability as a top priority to ensure the overcoming of current crises.
The joint vision focused on empowering Lebanese state institutions to fully exercise their role, within the framework of full respect for the constitutional and legal rules that govern the work of these institutions and ensure the continuity of their security and political services to all citizens.
Disarmament of Non-State Groups
The statement issued a clear and direct call for the full disarmament of all non-state groups operating on Lebanese territory. This approach was considered a fundamental strategic step toward consolidating the sovereignty of the Lebanese state and imposing the authority of the sole official institutions over the entire national territory, thereby ending the state of fragmented security authorities.
This demand comes in the context of enhancing internal stability and ensuring that weapons are not used for any conflicts or goals that fall outside the framework of the state’s official defense policy, which contributes to creating a safe environment for Lebanese citizens and restoring trust in their national institutions.
Consistent Humanitarian Stance on Gaza
Regarding the developments in the Gaza Strip, the statement reaffirmed a firm humanitarian stance that rejects forcing anyone to leave the territory. It emphasized that the freedom of choice in leaving must be accompanied by certain guarantees for voluntary return for any citizen who wishes to do so, while rejecting forced displacement under any justifications.
The Gulf states and the United States also announced their continued commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts aimed at alleviating suffering in Gaza. The statement concluded by emphasizing the importance of continued regional and international coordination to address security and humanitarian crises, to ensure the realization of sustainable stability that prevails in the region and brings security and prosperity to its peoples.
