Lebanese President Joseph Aoun departed for Washington on Saturday for talks with US President Donald Trump, the Lebanese Presidency has announced. The visit comes as efforts to consolidate the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, address the future of Hezbollah’s military role, and strengthen the Lebanese army’s presence in the country’s south remain at the centre of diplomatic negotiations. According to AFP, Aoun and Trump are expected to discuss the implementation of existing security arrangements, Israel’s phased withdrawal from disputed areas in southern Lebanon, and the Lebanese government’s role in bringing armed groups under state control. In recent weeks, Lebanon and Israel have been engaged in US-mediated negotiations aimed at establishing a framework to end hostilities. The proposed measures include the deployment of the Lebanese army in the south, the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the disarmament of armed groups, including Hezbollah. US and Lebanese officials say the process forms part of broader efforts to reinforce the ceasefire, enhance stability, and reduce Hezbollah’s influence within Lebanon’s security framework.
