Meet the new US Ambassador Lisa Johnson

Lisa A. Johnson, the new U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, has recently arrived in the country, announced by the U.S. embassy in Beirut. Johnson, who has had a distinguished career in diplomacy, previously served as the U.S. Ambassador to Namibia and held key roles in the State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement in Washington. Her familiarity with Lebanon is not new, as she previously served as an ambassador there from 2002 to 2004.

Upon her arrival, Johnson expressed her honor and pleasure at returning to Lebanon, acknowledging the current challenges faced by the country. She conveyed her admiration for the resilience and vibrancy of the Lebanese people, and her confidence in Lebanon’s potential for success. Emphasizing the importance of unity and purpose, she highlighted the common desire of Lebanese people for peace, prosperity, and a brighter future.

Johnson has a rich history of diplomatic service. She was confirmed as Ambassador to Lebanon by the U.S. Senate on December 14, 2023, following her tenure as Ambassador to Namibia from 2018 to 2021. She also served as Chargé d’Affaires in Nassau, The Bahamas, and held the position of Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. Her career includes a range of influential roles such as Deputy Commandant and International Affairs Advisor at the National War College, Director for Middle East Affairs at the National Security Council, and Senior Advisor for South and Central Asia in the Office of the Vice President.

Johnson’s international experience is extensive, with assignments in Islamabad, Pretoria, Luanda, and being seconded to the Office of the Secretary-General of NATO in Brussels. Originally from Iowa City and raised near Seattle, Washington, she holds a degree in Political Science and Economics from Stanford University, a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University, and an M.S. degree in National Security Strategy from the National War College. In 2023, she was honored with the Distinguished Presidential Rank Award and has received seven Senior Foreign Service Performance Awards.