U.S. Special Envoy Thomas Barrack said Tuesday that Israel will respond "step-by-step" to Lebanon's anticipated disarmament plan for Hezbollah, to be presented Sunday, with a "counter-proposal" related to its potential withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories and its requirements for border security guarantees.

Barrack, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey and special envoy to Syria, arrived in Beirut accompanied by Deputy Special Presidential Envoy to the Middle East Morgan Ortagus and U.S. senators.

He sought to reassure Hezbollah's supporters and the broader Shiite community that the Lebanese Army is preparing a plan to persuade Hezbollah to give up its weapons without sparking a civil war.

He also proposed creating an economic zone near the Israeli border aimed at generating jobs and

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