In the latest Carnegie Connects episode, Aaron David Miller engaged with Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah BouHabib regarding Lebanon’s crisis following President Biden’s UN speech, which BouHabib criticized for lacking strong support. The Lebanese express a strong desire for peace, with BouHabib emphasizing the need for American intervention to address Hezbollah’s role and the ongoing tensions with Israel.
In a recent episode of Carnegie Connects, Aaron David Miller conversed with Abdallah BouHabib, Lebanon’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, addressing the ongoing crisis in Lebanon, the ineffective solutions proposed by international leaders, particularly from the United States, and the humanitarian state of the Lebanese populace. Following President Biden’s remarks at the UN General Assembly, BouHabib expressed disappointment at the lack of substantial support for Lebanon from the United States, which he believes remains critical for achieving peace in the region. “It was not strong. It was not promising, and it would not solve the Lebanese problem” – Abdallah BouHabib. Returning to Lebanon’s recent escalations, BouHabib illustrated the country’s deep-seated despair, reflecting on the weariness of the Lebanese people who have endured prolonged conflict, stating a critical need for peace reasserted by a recent poll indicating 90% of the population desires tranquility. He portrayed the ongoing war not merely as a political issue but as a direct affront to Lebanon’s sovereignty, marking an urgent need for international coordination for a diplomatic resolution. He anticipated a period of negotiation particularly concerning the land disputes with Israel and emphasized the necessity of Israel acknowledging its responsibility to engage in discussions about the ongoing occupation of Lebanese territory. BouHabib underscored that many Lebanese view Hezbollah not simply as a militia but also as a part of the fabric of resistance against what they perceive as foreign aggression, connoting complex societal sentiments around national identity and security. He articulated a vision in which, following a resolution of border issues with Israel, Hezbollah’s legitimacy as a resistance body would diminish, transforming it into a domestic concern for the Lebanese government to address. Conversing about the broader geopolitical implications, BouHabib conveyed that the Israeli government’s reliance on military engagements compromises peace efforts, noting the detrimental effects on civilians. He called for a ceasefire in both Gaza and Lebanon, highlighting the paradox that Iran, while a key player in these tensions, seeks to avoid war, advocating instead for diplomatic solutions that prioritize peace over conflict.
The dialogue between Aaron David Miller and Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah BouHabib sheds light on the intricate dynamics following recent escalations in Lebanon amid historical tensions with Israel. Lebanon’s geopolitical position as a site of conflict intersects with internal societal challenges, particularly as the Lebanese populace grapples with political instability, economic crises, and the aftermath of a devastating 15-year civil war. The importance of international mediation, especially by the United States, is underscored by the looming concerns over regional stability and the role of groups like Hezbollah in Lebanese politics and defense.
In sum, the discourse reveals a profound yearning among the Lebanese for peace and stability, alongside a recognition that external support, particularly from the United States, is crucial in navigating the effective resolution of longstanding conflicts. BouHabib’s insights illustrate the complexities of Lebanese identity as influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive dialogue and negotiation to foster a lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: carnegieendowment.org
