Israel-Hezbollah War Live Updates: Blinken to Meet Lebanese PM in London Amid Ongoing Conflict
In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to meet Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in London this Friday. This meeting comes as the U.S. seeks to navigate the complex landscape of the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict, urging Israel to keep its military operations against Hezbollah brief and focused. The backdrop of this meeting is a region grappling with escalating tensions and humanitarian concerns, particularly for civilians caught in the crossfire.
Blinken arrived in London late Thursday after wrapping up a whirlwind tour of the Middle East, where he emphasized the need to protect Lebanese civilians amid the chaos. While he has been vocal about the importance of minimizing civilian casualties, he has stopped short of calling for an immediate ceasefire from Israel, which has been engaged in a fierce military campaign since the October 7 attack by Hamas.
During his time in London, Blinken will also hold separate discussions with the foreign ministers of Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. These talks are part of a broader strategy to formulate a post-war plan for Gaza, highlighting the U.S.’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation with its key allies.
Prime Minister Mikati is arriving at the talks fresh from a conference in Paris focused on providing aid to Lebanon. He reiterated a crucial point: that only the Lebanese state should wield arms, a statement that underscores the delicate balance of power within Lebanon, where Hezbollah has long maintained its own military capabilities. This sentiment reflects a desire for national unity and control over armed forces, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict with Israel.
The situation remains tense as Israel has vowed to significantly weaken Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militia that has been launching missiles into Israel in solidarity with Hamas. This escalation has raised alarms about the potential for a broader conflict, drawing in various regional players and complicating the humanitarian situation on the ground.
Blinken, who did not attend the Paris conference but sent a deputy, has been clear about the U.S. stance. At a news conference in Qatar, he stated that while Israel is justified in addressing the threat posed by Hezbollah, it is crucial that the military campaign does not drag on indefinitely. He emphasized the need for Israel to take steps to avoid civilian casualties and to protect UN peacekeepers and the Lebanese Armed Forces.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes peace and stability in a region that has seen too much conflict. With diplomatic efforts ramping up, the hope is that meaningful dialogue can pave the way for a safer future for all involved.
