Manama: Participants in the Gulf-US Ministerial Meeting, held in Manama on Friday, emphasized the critical importance of preserving the negotiation process in Lebanon, ensuring it remains distinct from other regional conflicts. The joint statement issued at the meeting highlighted the necessity for the full disarmament of non-state armed groups in Lebanon and the restoration of the Lebanese state's exclusive control over the use of force, alongside the need to support the Lebanese Armed Forces in achieving this aim.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the ministers reiterated their unwavering commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty, security, stability, and territorial integrity. They expressed support for the ongoing US-mediated bilateral negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, which aim to establish the conditions necessary for a sustainable peace and security agreement between the two nations.

The joint statement articulated that Lebanon's full sovereignty cannot be realized as long as military capabilities remain in the hands of non-state armed groups, operating outside the state's authority.

Additionally, the ministers welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, while commending the mediation efforts by Pakistan and Qatar. They highlighted the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring unrestricted freedom of navigation as crucial to regional and global security.

Moreover, the statement declared that trade and investment with Iran would be contingent upon Iran's adherence to the memorandum of understanding and any final agreement. This includes Iran's termination of destabilizing activities and the establishment of favorable conditions for economic cooperation.

The ministers concluded that establishing enduring peace and security in the region necessitates addressing all forms of Iranian threats, including its ballistic missile program, drone capabilities, and support for proxy groups throughout the region.