Kataeb leader Samy Gemayel, currently visiting the United States, met with Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf at the US State Department headquarters on Thursday.
During the meeting, Gemayel emphasized “the need to protect Lebanon from the repercussions of the ongoing war in the region,” stressing “the importance of implementing international resolutions, notably 1559 and 1701.”
Gemayel also stressed “the need to prevent any settlement between the conflicting parties at Lebanon’s expense,” adding that “it is Hezbollah that is disrupting the presidential election, having taken Lebanon hostage to serve its own interests and those of an Iranian-sponsored project in the region.”
He thanked the United States for its support for the Lebanese army, “which alone is responsible for protecting the security of Lebanon and its people,” warning against “the danger of undermining the stability of the military institution or allowing a vacancy at its head.” He added, “Postponing the retirement of the army’s Commander-in-Chief, General Joseph Aoun, is the only constitutional solution currently available in the absence of a president.”
Leaf assured Gemayel that the United States seeks to protect Lebanon from regional conflagration and is committed to helping it overcome crises and ensure its stability and security.
