Following a significant weakening of Hezbollah’s leadership by Israel and the Trump administration’s clear stance, conveyed through its special envoy, to limit the Iran-backed group’s influence, there are growing calls for peace with Israel in Lebanon.

Rami Naim, a journalist and analyst for Jusoor News, stated that the weakened state of Hezbollah post-war has opened the door for peace talks with Israel. He noted a shift from past suppression of pro-peace voices to a newfound openness, expressing his desire for normalization and peace without fear. Naim had previously faced attacks from Hezbollah for his views.

The diminished power of Hezbollah, coupled with Joseph Aoun’s election as president in January 2025, signals a potential shift in Lebanon’s political landscape. Aoun’s election, ending over two years of political gridlock, is seen as a victory for those opposing Hezbollah, potentially facilitating a change in public sentiment toward peace with Israel.

Naim expressed his belief that Trump’s return to the presidency could revitalize peace efforts, leading to a significant agreement between Lebanon and Israel, which would require increased pressure on Iran.

Jussor’s interviews reveal a growing willingness among Lebanese citizens to consider normalization with Israel. One Lebanese man voiced his hope for eventual normalization, acknowledging it would take time.

Another interviewee echoed this sentiment, stating that Israel desires peace and is working to prevent war, expressing exhaustion and a shared desire for peace.

Morgan Ortagus, U.S. deputy special envoy for Middle East Peace, has stressed the importance of disarming Hezbollah to stabilize Lebanon and create a path for regional peace.

Earlier this month, she described Hezbollah as a “cancer” that must be removed for Lebanon to recover, criticizing Iran for fueling instability and involving Lebanon in unwanted conflicts. She highlighted that Hezbollah and Iran initiated the war on October 8, 2023, against the will of the Lebanese government and people.

Ortagus expressed gratitude to Israel for its role in weakening Hezbollah during a press conference in Baabda following a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, according to the Associated Press.

Naim emphasized that while the public might be ready for peace, Lebanese politicians must take action and publicly support peace, alongside activists and journalists. He stressed the need for decision-makers to step forward.

Naim emphasized the importance of U.S. influence in Lebanon’s political direction. He criticized past administrations for compromising with Iran and neglecting Lebanese interests.

He expressed optimism about a potential return of , citing the pressure exerted on Iran during his first term and his approach to negotiations from a position of strength. He believes that his return would alter the regional dynamic.

Despite growing support for peace, the presence of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon remains a significant obstacle. One interviewee highlighted the need to address the situation of the 500,000 Palestinians living in Lebanon in the context of any peace agreement.

Another woman stated her support for peace, emphasizing Lebanon’s need for neutrality and an end to fighting wars that are not in its interest. She quoted the patriarch’s call for an end to the cycle of destruction and rejected the idea of sacrificing Lebanon for the sake of “liberating Palestine,” noting that Palestinians themselves have said they don’t need Lebanon’s involvement.

Naim concluded that a majority of Lebanese people now support normalization and peace with Israel, viewing it as a win-win situation that offers an escape from failed wars and a chance to live in peace. He emphasized that this view is no longer taboo in Lebanon.