Mikati Meets U.S. Secretary of State Blinken: Urgent Call for Ceasefire and Upholding UNSC Resolution 1701

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati emphasized the urgent necessity for a ceasefire to deter ongoing Israeli aggression, highlighting that over 1.4 million Lebanese have been displaced due to the attacks.

During a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in London, Mikati pointed out Israel's breaches of international law, particularly regarding assaults on civilians, journalists, and medical personnel.

He reiterated Lebanon's dedication to enforcing U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701 without any modifications.

Mikati called for Israel to genuinely commit to ceasing its fire, stating, "The previous response to the U.S.-French call for a ceasefire, supported internationally and regionally, has affected everyone’s credibility."

Also attending the meeting were U.S. spokesperson Matthew Miller and James Rubi, head of the U.S. Department of State's International Studies Institute.

The Lebanese delegation included Lebanon's Ambassador to London, Rami Mortada, and Mikati's advisor, Ziad Mikati.

Blinken reaffirmed the U.S. position advocating for a diplomatic resolution to achieve an immediate ceasefire, urging all parties to adhere to international resolutions that promote regional stability.

He also expressed U.S. support for Lebanese institutions, particularly the army and security forces, highlighting the vital role of the Lebanese military in implementing Resolution 1701 and diplomatically resolving the current conflict.