Secretary Blinken’s Call with Lebanese Speaker of Parliament Berri

Today, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Lebanese Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri. The Secretary underscored the United States’ commitment to achieve a durable diplomatic resolution to the conflict across the Blue Line that implements United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.  The Secretary underscored the key role state institutions will play post-conflict and the need to fill the presidential vacancy through democratic means that reflect the will of the Lebanese people for a stable, prosperous, and independent Lebanon.  The Secretary also reiterated his heartfelt concern and condolences for the loss of civilian lives and civilian suffering, including the scale of internally displaced person. He underscored the U.S. commitment to address Lebanon’s humanitarian needs, as shown by the recent announcement of nearly $157 million in humanitarian assistance for those impacted by the crisis.