Biden’s nominee for Lebanon ambassador commends the army and criticizes Hezbollah

Lisa Johnson, the US Ambassador nominee to Lebanon, emphasized the country’s significance to the US as it lies at the intersection of US national security interests in the Middle East due to its proximity to Israel, instability in Syria, and Hezbollah’s destabilizing activities.

Johnson, who praised Lebanon’s cultural ties to the US, urged the Lebanese parliament to choose a president free from corruption, capable of unifying the country and putting the interests of the people first, and able to implement the necessary reforms.

Lebanon is currently facing one of the worst economic crises in history and has been without a president since October.

Johnson voiced her support for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and the Internal Security Forces (ISF), pointing out that the more than $3 billion in security aid since 2006 had allowed them to strengthen Lebanon’s sovereignty, counter terrorism, and disrupt Hezbollah’s false narrative.

Johnson also acknowledged the threat posed by Hezbollah, designated a terrorist group by Washington in 1997, and said that she would continue to pursue all tools to advance US counterterrorism objectives.

Despite the challenges facing Lebanon, Johnson expressed optimism and highlighted the recent US-brokered maritime border deal between Lebanon and Israel, stating that Lebanon’s leaders could achieve much if they set aside partisan and personal interests and put the country and its people first.