U.S. Special Envoy to Lebanon and Syria Tom Barrack issued a stark warning to Lebanese officials, stating, “If Lebanon continues to hesitate on the disarmament of Hezbollah, Israel will act unilaterally.” Barrack’s comments, made during a briefing at the State Department, underscore growing U.S. frustration with Lebanon’s failure to enforce the ceasefire agreement with Israel, which includes Hezbollah’s disarmament as a key provision.

Barrack’s ultimatum comes amid escalating tensions, with Israel conducting airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon after reports of rocket fire. The U.S., under President Donald Trump, has mediated the agreement, but Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has cited domestic political challenges in complying. “Lebanon must take responsibility for its sovereignty,” Barrack emphasized, hinting at potential U.S. support for Israeli action if disarmament stalls.

The warning risks further destabilizing Lebanon, already reeling from economic collapse and Hezbollah’s dominance. Israel, facing ongoing threats, has signaled readiness to enforce the deal alone. Mediators from Qatar and Egypt are urging compliance, but Barrack’s statement signals a limit to patience.