Marco Rubio and King Abdullah II discuss Hezbollah disarmament

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held discussions with Jordanian King Abdullah II regarding regional stability and the implementation of the tripartite framework agreement in Lebanon. A primary focus of the conversation was the disarmament of Hezbollah as a condition for regional security and the enforcement of the agreement.

King Abdullah II emphasized the need for a comprehensive de-escalation to ensure the sovereignty of Arab nations and highlighted the pivotal role of the United States in supporting regional stability. The King also noted recent efforts to mobilize international support for the Lebanese Army to maintain security within Lebanon.

Diplomatic tensions persist regarding the sequence of implementation. While Lebanese officials advocate for a reciprocal, gradual approach that links Israeli withdrawal to the expansion of state authority and military presence, US officials have indicated that the deployment of the Lebanese Army in the south may be insufficient without progress on the disarmament of Hezbollah. Despite these differing priorities, the US continues to provide military aid to the Lebanese Armed Forces, including recent shipments of vehicles and ammunition.