US Secretary of State Blinken speaks with Lebanese Prime Minister Mikati

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke by phone with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati. In a statement regarding the call, the US Department of State said, “The Secretary reiterated the US commitment to a diplomatic solution to the conflict along the Blue Line that implements United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 and allows citizens on both sides of the border, in Israel and Lebanon, to return to their homes.

He underscored the continued US support for Lebanese institutions that can help stabilize the country, including the Lebanese Armed Forces," the statement said.

The statement added, “The Secretary also discussed the approximately 157 million dollars in humanitarian assistance recently announced by the US to support populations affected by the conflict in Lebanon and the region, and emphasized his concern over civilian casualties.

The discussion also addressed the presidential vacancy in Lebanon and the need to empower leadership that reflects the will of the people for a stable, prosperous, and independent Lebanon. The Secretary emphasized that Lebanon cannot allow Iran or Hezbollah to obstruct Lebanon's security and stability,” the statement concluded.

Blinken also spoke with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.