Exclusive to The Beiruter: Congressman LaHood calls for Hezbollah disarmament

At the Lebanese Information Center’s (LIC) 26th Annual Gala Dinner in Chicago, U.S. Congressman Darin LaHood, Co-Chair of the U.S.-Lebanon Friendship Caucus, delivering a strong message of solidarity with the Lebanese people and outlining his priorities for Lebanon’s new government.

The disarmament of Hezbollah

“The disarmament of Hezbollah needs to be a top priority of the new Lebanese government and the Lebanese Armed Forces,” Congressman LaHood. “Hezbollah cannot be allowed to regroup or reestablish control south of the Litani River. The United States, along with our regional partners and military, are working hard to enforce and monitor the ceasefire and disarmament plan, but tangible progress must be made.”

LaHood emphasized that southern Lebanon’s reconstruction is conditional on this critical step. “For reconstruction to move forward, disarming Hezbollah must be accomplished first,” he said.

We have to support the LAF with more military equipment, drones, and air cover to secure stability and peace.

A moment of opportunity for Lebanon

When asked about Lebanon’s current geopolitical context, LaHood highlighted historic shifts in the Middle East. “Iran is at its weakest point in 35 years, and the Assad regime in Syria is gone, presenting Lebanon with a unique chance to reclaim sovereignty and rebuild. Now is the time for Lebanon to take advantage of these geopolitical shifts. The Trump administration understands that, and this team in place wants Lebanon to succeed,” he added.

Democratic reform and the 2026 elections

Looking ahead to Lebanon’s parliamentary elections in May 2026, LaHood reaffirmed Congress’s close attention and support for fair democratic processes.

“These elections will be pivotal. We must work alongside pro-sovereignty groups to ensure Hezbollah and its allies do not gain additional ground in parliament,” he said.

LaHood also stressed the importance of voting rights for Lebanese expatriates

Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri must prioritize legislative amendments guaranteeing full participation for the diaspora. If these reforms are not brought forward, Congress should be ready to act, including sanctions against those obstructing this democratic right.

Renewed U.S.-Lebanon partnership

When asked about the role of LIC in U.S.-Lebanon relations, LaHood expressed deep gratitude. “I want to thank LIC for their tireless work promoting the U.S.-Lebanon relationship and raising awareness in Washington, D.C. Over the past decade, their partnership has been invaluable,” he added.

He concluded the exclusive interview with a message of optimism for Lebanon’s future. “Our goal is an independent, prosperous, and vibrant Lebanon. The stars are aligned for transformational change, and working together, we can make it happen,” LaHood said.