Rubio: US to deal directly with Lebanon, separate from Iran deal

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that Washington will negotiate and deal directly with Beirut, and that Lebanon-Israel negotiations are separate from the US-Iran agreement. Speaking after landing in Abu Dhabi, Rubio stated: “That process is separate. It's separate because Lebanon is a sovereign country. It has a government, and when it comes to Lebanon … we're going to negotiate and deal directly with the Lebanese government.” He confirmed he had spoken with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Friday and that US officials are on the ground.

Iran’s role and Hezbollah

Rubio noted that the “Iranian issue with regards to Lebanon” is “the support and sponsorship of Hezbollah,” which will be discussed as part of conversations with Iran. However, he emphasized that “the future of Lebanon belongs to the Lebanese people through their sovereign elected government.” On the Strait of Hormuz, Rubio said Iran will not be able to charge tolls under any final agreement, as it would violate international law. He also stated that a complete end to hostilities in the region is impossible unless Iranian proxies are prevented from launching missiles and drones.

Investment prospects

Rubio suggested that investment opportunities could emerge for Iran if Tehran chooses to become a “country instead of a revolutionary movement that exports terror.” However, he clarified that such investment would not involve US government money, but would depend on progress on security issues.