Top UK Diplomat: Lebanon’s Safety and Stability Come First!

UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron recently concluded a one-day trip to Lebanon, marking his inaugural visit to the nation in this role. Previously, he had visited Lebanon as Prime Minister in September 2015, and this trip represents his fourth journey to the Middle East as Foreign Secretary.

Accompanied by Lord Ahmad, the Minister of State for the Middle East, Cameron met with several key Lebanese figures including caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) Commander General Joseph Aoun, and UNIFIL’s Lieutenant General Aroldo Lázaro Sáenz.

During these meetings, Cameron expressed concern about the growing tensions at the Lebanon-Israel border and emphasized the UK’s dedication to helping reduce the violence, as per a statement from the British embassy.

Cameron also visited the Rayak military airbase in the Bekaa region, where he observed the collaborative efforts of the UK and Lebanon in training the Land Border Regiments. He reiterated the UK’s strong and enduring partnership with the Lebanese Army.

The Foreign Secretary announced significant UK support for the LAF, exceeding £100 million since 2009. This support includes the construction of 78 border towers, provision of 344 Land Rovers, 3,450 sets of personal protective equipment for soldiers in border operations, and 100 armored Land Rover patrol vehicles. Additionally, over 26,500 LAF personnel have received UK training in border and internal security operations.

Cameron also revealed new UK aid funding of £7.35 million to the OCHA Lebanon Humanitarian Fund, assisting U.N. agencies and NGOs in providing essential services to Lebanon’s vulnerable populations. A further £2.6 million will support the education of at-risk children through UNICEF and the MEHE’s Transition and Resilience Education Fund (TREF).

This visit continues Cameron’s efforts in the region, advocating for an immediate halt to hostilities, access for aid, the release of hostages, and a lasting ceasefire.

Cameron stressed the UK’s role in maintaining stability in Lebanon and averting regional conflicts. He acknowledged the UK’s contribution to training Lebanese soldiers and providing humanitarian aid.

British Ambassador to Lebanon, Hamish Cowell, emphasized the UK’s enduring commitment to Lebanon’s stability and security. He highlighted the fragility of the situation along the Blue Line and the importance of avoiding an escalation in violence. Cowell reiterated the need for adherence to UNSCR 1701 for lasting peace and commended the UK’s unwavering support to the Lebanese Armed Forces and the vulnerable communities in Lebanon.