Rubio reaffirms US support for Lebanon as Salam calls for clear timeline on Israeli withdrawal and state control over weapons

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the State Department in Washington, where he called for activating the trilateral framework and establishing a clear timeline for implementing its commitments.

In a post on X, Salam said the meeting focused on developments in Lebanon and the region, as well as efforts to restore Lebanon's full sovereignty. 

He stressed Lebanon's desire for a renewed partnership with the United States to support rebuilding the state and strengthening its legitimate institutions.

Salam called for translating the principles of reciprocity and phased implementation under the trilateral framework into concrete steps, leading to a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, the restoration of Lebanon's sovereignty and exclusive state control over weapons throughout the country.

He also emphasized the need for a clear implementation timeline to ensure progress on Israeli withdrawal, the extension of state authority and exclusive state control over weapons. He called for a credible verification mechanism to monitor implementation and ensure that failure to meet commitments is not used as a pretext to obstruct the process.

Salam stressed that the framework extends beyond security arrangements to include support for government relief, recovery and reconstruction efforts, the rehabilitation of infrastructure and essential services, and the creation of conditions for displaced residents to return and remain in their communities.

He called for mobilizing U.S. and international support for recovery and reconstruction, particularly in areas affected by the war.

Salam also emphasized the importance of continued U.S. assistance to the Lebanese army and strengthening its capabilities to enable it to fulfill its responsibilities and extend state authority throughout Lebanese territory.

Rubio, for his part, reaffirmed Washington's commitment to supporting Lebanon and its legitimate institutions, including continued assistance to the Lebanese army and efforts to strengthen its capabilities.

He also stressed the importance of implementing the trilateral framework to achieve security and stability.