Lebanon’s premier warns of fragile diplomacy to prevent war

Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed concern Wednesday over the fragile prospects for diplomatic efforts aimed at averting an Israeli war on Lebanon, as tensions between Israel and Hezbollah continue to mount.

‘Wary chances for diplomacy’

“There are wary chances for the diplomacy that is mobilizing to prevent war and halt the Israeli aggressions,” Mikati stated during a cabinet meeting focused on an emergency government plan to address the potential Israeli threats.

Mikati emphasized Lebanon is “still paying a hefty price” following over 10 months of Israeli military actions in Gaza and attacks on Lebanon.

He reaffirmed Lebanon’s strict adherence to U.N. Resolution 1701, which calls for a full cessation of hostilities between Lebanon and Israel.

In his remarks, the Prime Minister vowed Lebanon would utilize all its “capacities and friendships to protect” the nation, accusing Israel’s “intransigence” of jeopardizing ongoing efforts to prevent further conflict.