Michel Issa: Israel doesn't require US permission to defend itself
The new United States ambassador to Lebanon, Michel Issa, has stated that Israel "does not require the permission of the United States" to defend itself.
"Israel assesses its own security needs and will take whatever measures it deems necessary to protect its citizens," the ambassador told Israel's Haaretz newspaper.
Issa added that the administration in Washington is in full contact with the Lebanese government and is "strongly urging them to implement their own historic decision to disarm Hezbollah."
According to the new ambassador, the U.S. commitment to this decision "is essential for restoring the authority of the Lebanese state and safeguarding the country's future."
He added that "disarming Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations in Lebanon, as well as ending Iran's proxy activities more broadly, is a key step to ensuring peace in Lebanon and across the region."
Issa declined to comment on the likelihood of diplomatic talks between Israel and Lebanon, or on the possible outlines of such a process.
In response to a question about the United States' goals and priorities in Lebanon, the new ambassador said the administration is focused on achieving "a durable peace between Lebanon and Israel and supporting Lebanon's sovereignty."
He added that the administration is also working to secure "a peaceful and prosperous future for Lebanon through strengthening commercial opportunities for Americans in Lebanon and with Lebanese partners."
Issa had told MTV that the Lebanese Army has tangibly expanded its deployment in the South and has actually started destroying Hezbollah's military infrastructure, adding that the army must continue to remove arms across Lebanon in line with the government's decisions.
Issa also said that negotiations between Lebanon and Israel are necessary for a permanent peace, noting that the two sides are willing to engage in U.S.-mediated talks when the circumstances become appropriate.
He also noted that the U.S. assistance for the Lebanese army and security forces will continue.
Source: Naharnet
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