Secretary Blinken’s Call with Caretaker Prime Minister Mikati

Today, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Caretaker Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati. The Secretary reiterated the United States commitment to a diplomatic resolution to the conflict across the Blue Line that implements United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 and allows displaced citizens in both Israel and Lebanon to return to their homes. He underscored enduring United States support for Lebanese institutions that can help stabilize the country, including the Lebanese Armed Forces. The Secretary also discussed the United States’ recently announced nearly $157 million in humanitarian aid to support populations affected by conflict in Lebanon and the region and emphasized his concern for the loss of civilian life. They discussed Lebanon’s presidential vacancy 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 Hizballah to stand in the way of Lebanon’s security and stability.