Blinken Meets Mikati, Urges ‘Diplomatic Resolution’ in Lebanon

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged on Friday to push urgently for a diplomatic solution to end Israel’s ongoing offensive in Lebanon but emphasized that securing an agreement on Hezbollah’s disarmament is essential.

During a meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in London, Blinken stressed the need for civilian protections but stopped short of calling for an immediate ceasefire. The U.S. remains a key diplomatic and military backer of Israel.

“We’re approaching this with a sense of real urgency to reach a diplomatic solution and fully implement U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, to ensure lasting security along the Israel-Lebanon border,” Blinken told reporters, noting he was “intensely engaged” in these efforts.

Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006 after a previous conflict, calls for the disarmament of non-state forces in Lebanon—primarily referring to Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Shiite group that maintains its own military—and for Israel’s full withdrawal from Lebanon.

Blinken highlighted the need to establish conditions that allow full implementation of the resolution, adding, “The sooner we secure these understandings, the sooner we can reach a resolution.”

He urged efforts to safeguard civilians and Lebanese soldiers, at least 11 of whom have died since the Israeli offensive began a month ago. “It’s important that in places like Beirut, real measures are taken to protect civilians and avoid unnecessary harm,” he said.

The U.S. has advocated for strengthening Lebanon’s central government and its military to assume full responsibility for security, reducing Hezbollah’s influence.

Prime Minister Mikati, who was in Paris on Thursday for a Lebanon support conference, reaffirmed that only Lebanon’s state and army should bear arms.

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, also meeting with Blinken, noted Lebanon’s government has committed to upholding Resolution 1701, adding, “The aggression against Lebanon must stop immediately. There’s no justification for its continuation.”