Trump Meets Lebanese President Aoun as Israel Begins Phased Withdrawal from South Lebanon

President Donald Trump met Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House on Tuesday to advance Israel's initial withdrawal from south Lebanon and the disarmament of Hezbollah. Trump shared a lengthy handshake with Aoun after the Lebanese leader arrived in a black SUV at the West Wing. Aoun is the first Lebanese president to visit the White House since 2009.

The leaders discussed implementation of a late-June agreement between Israel and Lebanon that calls for a phased Israeli pullout from so-called pilot areas, tied to disarmament of Hezbollah by the Lebanese Armed Forces. Thousands of Lebanese people have been killed in fighting that began earlier this year alongside the U.S. war on Iran.

-brokered talks. Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are negotiating through American intermediaries rather than meeting directly. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also met with Aoun. Trump stated that the United States feels very good about Lebanon and remains committed to supporting efforts to deliver security and peace.

““I commended his courage and his government’s work to reclaim their country and advance towards peace.””

“— President Donald Trump”

““The United States remains committed to supporting this effort and Lebanon’s efforts to deliver security, peace and a better future for the Lebanese people.””