Lebanon is at a pivotal moment. One day after October 7, Hezbollah initiated strikes on Israel, leading to some of the most significant fighting outside of Gaza. Months of tit-for-tat escalation led to major Israeli military intervention, decimating Hezbollah and decapitating its leadership. These shifts upended Lebanon’s political and military status quo, paving the way for the election of a new president and a government that has promised long-demanded reforms. In an unprecedented move, the cabinet recently adopted a multi-phased plan for the Lebanese Armed Forces to disarm Hezbollah. Yet, Hezbollah has rejected the plan, Israeli strikes continue, and Israeli forces still occupy parts of southern Lebanon. Can Lebanon seize this moment of opportunity to embark on a new path? Or will the country fall back into instability?
Please join the CSIS Middle East Program for a conversation with Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL) on December 1 at 3:00 pm EST to discuss this critical juncture. CSIS Senior Adviser and Middle East Program Director Mona Yacoubian and Congressman LaHood will discuss prospects for change and reform in Lebanon and the role the United States should play.
Congressman LaHood is the co-chair of the Congressional U.S.-Lebanon Friendship Caucus and has extensive expertise in Lebanese political affairs and U.S.-Lebanon relations.
Questions from the audience are welcome. Submit your questions here.
This event is made possible by general support to CSIS.
