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Steinmeier in Beirut Pledges Support, Says Hezbollah Disarmament Key to Israeli Withdrawal

Berlin is prioritizing support for the Lebanese army ahead of UNIFIL’s year-end exit.

Overview

  • At a news conference with President Joseph Aoun, Steinmeier said Germany "stands by" Lebanon and will continue assistance after the UN mission ends.
  • He urged Lebanon and Israel to implement the November 2024 ceasefire, calling Hezbollah’s disarmament a prerequisite for an Israeli pullback from the south.
  • Israeli strikes in southern and eastern Lebanon shortly before his arrival killed at least four people, underscoring the fragile truce.
  • Lebanon says the first phase of Hezbollah disarmament is complete, but deadlines have slipped and the militia resists further steps.
  • The German president met Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and visited the frigate Sachsen-Anhalt, highlighting training and maritime security cooperation.