US envoy apologizes for “animalistic” remark, sparks outrage in Lebanon

The recent comments made by US Envoy Tom Barrack, referring to Lebanese journalists as “animalistic,” have ignited widespread anger and criticism across the Middle East.

Barrack, who serves as ambassador to Turkey and special envoy for Syria and Lebanon, expressed regret for his choice of words but maintained that his intention was to call for civility and tolerance in the region.

The controversy began when Barrack met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the presidential palace near Beirut. As he addressed reporters in the briefing room, he was met with a barrage of questions that left him visibly irritated.

“Please be quiet for a moment,” Barrack said, adding, “the moment this starts becoming chaotic — like, animalistic — we’re gone. So, you want to know what’s happening? Act civilised, act kind, act tolerant, because this is the problem with what’s happening in the region.”

These comments sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that Barrack’s remarks sum up Washington’s condescending approach to the region.

Ibrahim Moussawi, a member of Hezbollah’s parliamentary bloc, slammed Barrack’s comments, saying they represent the “foolishness and arrogance” of the US approach to Lebanon.

“This envoy embodies, with absolute honesty, the reality of the United States of America and the essence of the barbaric, aggressive philosophy upon which it was founded,” Moussawi said.

The Lebanese Press Syndicate also issued a statement denouncing Barrack’s “inappropriate treatment” of Lebanese journalists.

Barrack’s visit to Lebanon is part of a broader US effort to secure an agreement that would see the disarming of Hezbollah in exchange for promises that Israel would fully withdraw from the country and end its daily attacks.

However, Hezbollah has rejected calls to disarm, arguing that its weapons protect Lebanon from Israel’s expansionist aims. The group has also accused the Lebanese government of following US and Israeli diktats.

The impasse risks internal confrontations within Lebanon, which has been reeling from security and economic crises for years. The Lebanese government has said that only the state can protect all of its citizens, insisting that the Lebanese Armed Forces must be the only side with weapons in the country.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to occupy five areas inside Lebanese territory and has launched daily attacks across Lebanon, preventing residents from returning to their border towns.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Barrack’s remarks highlights the complex dynamics at play in Lebanon, where the US is pushing for Hezbollah’s disarmament amid ongoing security concerns and economic instability.

The situation demands a nuanced approach that respects the sovereignty and dignity of the Lebanese people.