Story perspectives

U.S. Officials Criticize Lebanese Army's Hezbollah Response Strategy

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. officials are dissatisfied with Lebanese Army chief Rodolphe Haykal's handling of Hezbollah's influence, saying negotiations with Israel are futile as Israel intensifies operations.
A statement attributed to Lebanese military officers warned against using the army against Hezbollah.
The army denied any connection.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam deemed the remark suspicious.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said the group is prepared for a prolonged confrontation with Israel.

History

Historical Context

The Lebanese Civil War, which erupted in 1975, weakened the central government's authority and empowered militias like Hezbollah. Since 2006, the U.S. has provided approximately $1.5 billion in aid to the Lebanese Army to counter Hezbollah's influence. Current tensions, highlighted by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam's concerns, reflect ongoing struggles between state authority and militant groups, shaping Lebanon's fragile political landscape.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. officials are dissatisfied with Lebanese Army chief Rodolphe Haykal's handling of Hezbollah's influence, saying negotiations with Israel are futile as Israel intensifies operations.
A statement attributed to Lebanese military officers warned against using the army against Hezbollah.
The army denied any connection.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam deemed the remark suspicious.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said the group is prepared for a prolonged confrontation with Israel.

1 / 2