Lebanon’s False Start: Why Security and Political Reforms Are Vital to Economic Revival

Lebanon stands at a critical crossroads. After years of economic collapse rooted in corruption and mismanagement, the nation now wrestles with a challenge far beyond mere financial band-aids: genuine sovereignty. Amer Bisat, Lebanon's economy minister, acknowledges that true recovery requires disarming Hezbollah and other non-state actors—a step essential not just for Lebanon’s wellbeing but for regional stability that directly impacts American interests.Why does this matter to us? Hezbollah’s presence fuels instability along Israel’s northern border, threatening America’s strategic ally while empowering Iran-backed proxies who undermine Middle Eastern peace. Without fully securing its borders, airports, and financial systems from illicit activities...