General Jeffers Returns to the Spotlight: A Critical Visit to Lebanon
Five months after taking over as head of the international monitoring body for the ceasefire in southern Lebanon, American General Jasper Jeffers is once again in the public eye. Though he assumed his role back in late November—just after the ceasefire deal took effect on the 27th—his current visit feels like a fresh start, underscoring its importance.
A Message from Washington: “It’s Now or Never”
General Jeffers is not in Lebanon on a routine visit. According to sources, he brings with him a strong message from Washington: the timeline for Hezbollah to hand over its weapons is narrowing. The United States believes there is no open-ended grace period, and Lebanon must act now. The message can be summed up with the phrase “It’s Now or Never.” His visit aims to evaluate, in detail, how far the Lebanese state has come in asserting its authority over areas previously controlled by Hezbollah.
Meetings with Lebanese Leaders
Today, General Jeffers is scheduled to meet with top Lebanese officials, starting with President Joseph Aoun. This meeting is expected to go beyond formalities. Jeffers is bringing specific data and proposals from Washington regarding the situation in southern Lebanon and how to keep the peace process moving. For his part, Aoun will reaffirm Lebanon’s commitment to UN Resolution 1701 and will push for a faster Israeli withdrawal, which he says is key for the Lebanese Army to do its job.
Sources close to the Lebanese Prime Minister have confirmed that he will reiterate a firm stance during his meeting with Jeffers. This includes denouncing Israeli attacks and insisting that all weapons must be under the control of the Lebanese state. President Aoun will also emphasize this point in his discussions:
weapons must be limited to the state, starting from south of the Litani River and eventually covering all of Lebanon. There is no confusion or retreat from this position, officials say.
Conclusion
General Jeffers’ visit represents more than a diplomatic stop. It marks a turning point in Lebanon’s path toward full sovereignty and control. The U.S. is making it clear that the clock is ticking. Now is the time for action not later.
later on General Michael Linney has been appointed as the successor to U.S. General Jasper Jeffers
