House Speaker, Nabih Berri, on Wednesday welcomed US presidential envoy, Amos Hochstein, at the Second Presidency in Ain al-Tineh today. The meeting was attended by US Ambassador to Lebanon, Lisa Johnson, and Berri’s media advisor, Ali Hamdan.
Discussions reportedly focused on the overall situation in Lebanon and the region, particularly the ongoing Israeli aggression against Lebanon and Gaza. Hochstein emphasized that the US, at President Joe Biden’s request, is working towards a ceasefire in Gaza, which he believes will have a positive impact on Lebanon.
Hochstein stressed that the prolonged conflict in the region needs to end, stating, “The cycle of war must stop.”
In turn, Speaker Berri reiterated his call for an end to the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza and Lebanon, which have persisted for over ten months.
The House Speaker expressed deep concern over escalating Israeli actions, including cross-border assassinations in Tehran and Beirut, and daily massacres against children and civilians in Gaza, describing these actions as evidence of Israel’s intent to continue military escalation and to thwart any efforts to end the conflict.
Berri also reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to extending the mandate of the UNIFIL force in accordance with Security Council Resolution 1701, which Lebanon has adhered to since its adoption in 2006.
After the meeting, Hochstein reflected, “During my last visit to Lebanon in June, I mentioned that the conflict had lasted too long and that a diplomatic solution was urgently needed. Unfortunately, this remains true today.”
“A diplomatic solution is still achievable, as no one desires a full-scale war between Lebanon and Israel.” Hochstein added, noting that US President, Joe Biden, is tirelessly working to secure a ceasefire and the release of detainees, and stressed the urgency of reaching an agreement to prevent further escalation and facilitate the return of displaced persons.
Responding to questions, Hochstein conveyed a straightforward message to the Lebanese people: “America stands with the Lebanese people who seek to live in security, peace, and prosperity, free from the constant threat of conflict and war.”
Hochstein finally highlighted the need to return to the right path and stressed that resolving the Gaza conflict could create conditions conducive to peace and stability along the borders, urging all parties to act promptly and decisively.
Mikati, Hochstein discuss Israeli aggression and Gaza ceasefire
Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, on Wednesday met with Hochstein, at the Grand Serail, with US Ambassador, Lisa Johnson, and her accompanying delegation present.
The Lebanese delegation included Foreign Minister, Abdullah Bou Habib, Director General of the Presidency Dr. Antoine Chouciar, and advisors Ambassador Boutros Assaker and Ziad Mikati.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Mikati stressed the need for increased pressure on Israel to halt its aggression and threats, emphasizing that the key to resolving the conflict lies in achieving a ceasefire in Gaza and implementing UN Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 1701, which ensures stability in southern Lebanon.
In turn, Hochstein assured that diplomatic efforts were ongoing across various capitals to support the diplomatic resolution advocated by the US, Egyptian, and Qatari presidents.
Moreover, the US envoy mentioned that discussions on this matter would continue in Doha starting tomorrow and will last several days.
Hochstein expressed hope for a ceasefire in Gaza, which he believes will help reduce escalation in southern Lebanon, and reaffirmed that Resolution 1701 remains a guarantee for stability in the region.
Source: NNA
