Trump has chance to liberate Lebanon from Iran's control

Lebanon has faced decades of manipulation by Iran and the oppressive influence of Hezbollah. As of August 2025, this complex situation presents a significant opportunity for the United States under President Donald Trump's administration. The Lebanese people have long suffered under the stranglehold of an Iranian proxy, which undermines their sovereignty and stifles governance reforms necessary for rebuilding their nation. Without addressing the fundamental power held by Hezbollah, every effort to restore economic stability and governance will inevitably fail. Hence, it is crucial for the U.S. to consider strategies that support legitimate governance in Lebanon and withdraw support for groups that impede national sovereignty. The role of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) becomes paramount in this context. The U.S. has the intelligence capabilities and leverage to assist LAF, which is essential for stabilizing the region amid Iranian aggression. Additionally, the influence of Syria’s government further complicates the situation, as it depends on American support for survival. Therefore, the U.S. must act decisively, focusing on the principle of maintaining one genuine military authority within Lebanon, rather than relying on international bodies like the United Nations, which have often proved ineffective or even counterproductive in stabilizing the situation. As the U.S. considers its foreign policy options, it is imperative to prioritize the needs and aspirations of the Lebanese people. They deserve governance that is accountable to them and not subordinate to foreign interests. The path toward restoring Lebanon’s sovereignty is fraught with challenges, but the fundamental objective should involve empowering the citizens of Lebanon rather than propping up a foreign-controlled militia. Only through such measures can Lebanon achieve legitimate governance and reclaim its national identity. In summary, Lebanon stands at a pivotal juncture. The incoming U.S. administration must seize this chance to reshape the nation’s future by standing against Iranian influence and supporting the LAF. Failure to act could consign Lebanon to continued unrest and foreign manipulation, while decisive action could finally lead it toward a sovereign path free from the shadows of extrinsic control.