The British Embassy announced in a statement on Thursday that Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, Senior Advisor for the UK Ministry of Defense for the Middle East and North Africa, met with senior Lebanese and UN officials. During these discussions, he reiterated the UK's urgent call for an immediate ceasefire and emphasized the necessity of a political resolution in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Additionally, he acknowledged the Lebanese Armed Forces as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon.
The statement highlighted Ahlgren's meetings with key figures such as Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Lebanese Army Commander General Joseph Aoun, and the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. Furthermore, he conducted a virtual meeting with UNIFIL Commander Major General Aroldo Lázaro, accompanied by British Ambassador Hamish Cowell and Military Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Charles Smith.
“In my meetings yesterday, I reaffirmed the UK’s ongoing support for the Lebanese Armed Forces as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon, helping to build the foundations for future stability and security,” Ahlgren stated.
He emphasized that the UK has delivered essential food and medical supplies to the Lebanese Armed Forces, stating, "As of now, the UK has provided £15 million in humanitarian aid to displaced families throughout Lebanon, offering provisions such as food, medicine, and clean water. Our commitment to Lebanon remains unwavering."
Fo his part, British Ambassador Hamish Cowell expressed concern about the deteriorating situation in Lebanon, with civilian casualties on the rise. He stressed, "We cannot allow Lebanon to endure a fate similar to that of Gaza." Cowell reiterated the UK's plea for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, emphasizing the importance of upholding international humanitarian law and providing vital humanitarian aid to Lebanon.
He pointed out that Ahlgren’s visit yesterday underscores the strength of bilateral military relations between the UK and Lebanon.
“The UK remains a key contributor to Lebanon’s stability and security, recognizing the Lebanese Armed Forces as the sole legitimate military authority in the country,” he said.
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