Blinken: US Seeks Lebanon Solution, Not Broader Conflict

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism on Friday for a diplomatic solution in Lebanon while emphasizing the importance of preventing a wider conflict in the region. He voiced support for Lebanon’s fragile government to strengthen its authority against Hezbollah.

Blinken reiterated that Israel, which has been conducting deadly airstrikes on Lebanon, has “a right to defend itself” against Hezbollah but also raised concerns about the humanitarian situation.

Speaking after an East Asia Summit in Laos, Blinken said, “We are actively engaging to prevent a broader conflict in the region.”

He stressed the need to create conditions that would allow people to return to their homes safely, stating, “Israel has a legitimate interest in ensuring the security of its citizens, and the people of Lebanon want the same security. We believe that the best way forward is through diplomatic negotiations, something we’ve been working on for a while and are focusing on now.”

Blinken further highlighted the importance of supporting the Lebanese state as it seeks to strengthen its position, saying, “It is clear that the people of Lebanon have a strong interest in the state asserting itself and taking responsibility for the country’s future.”

He also addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, voicing concerns about the limited aid reaching those in need. “I am deeply concerned about the insufficient assistance getting to them,” Blinken said, adding that the U.S. has been “very directly engaged with Israel” on this issue.