In a recent episode of Carnegie Connects, Aaron David Miller spoke with Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah BouHabib about the ongoing crisis in Lebanon and the implications of President Biden’s remarks at the UN. BouHabib expressed disappointment in the lack of robust U.S. support, highlighting the dire mood in Lebanon, where citizens long for peace after years of conflict. He discussed Hezbollah’s role in the region and the necessity for negotiations to resolve border disputes with Israel, advocating for international intervention to help pave the way for recovery and stability in Lebanon.
On this week’s episode of Carnegie Connects, Aaron David Miller engaged in a poignant dialogue with Lebanese Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, Abdallah BouHabib, concerning the escalating crisis in Lebanon and potential responses from the United States and other nations. Their discussion, recorded on Tuesday evening, sheds light on the Lebanese sentiment amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. Minister BouHabib expressed disappointment regarding President Biden’s recent remarks about Lebanon at the UN General Assembly, emphasizing that they lacked the strength and promise necessary to address the dire situation Lebanon faces. “We need to solve [the problem]. We can’t continue like this,” he asserted, advocating for a more proactive approach by the United States, which he believes holds the key to meaningful change in the Middle East. The overarching mood in Lebanon, as described by BouHabib, is one of despair. He lamented the ongoing violence and its effects on the Lebanese population, stating, “We’d like to live without war—happily, as a tourist country, a beautiful country, good food—and we are not able to do it.” He noted the alarming reality that many capable individuals are emigrating, seeking better opportunities abroad amid the chaotic conditions. The conversation delved deeper into the complexity of Lebanese perceptions of Hezbollah, where BouHabib pointed out a dichotomy. While some view Hezbollah solely as a resistance organization against Israeli occupation, others are critical of its military influence within Lebanon. BouHabib articulated that the Lebanese perspective is conflicted, rooted in a historical context of occupation. In light of recent events, he emphasized the need for a diplomatic resolution, suggesting that past peace efforts must be revisited. BouHabib posited that should Hezbollah lose its justification as a resistance group via a resolution of the border disputes with Israel, it could transition into an internal issue to be resolved by Lebanese authorities. Miller and BouHabib discussed the wider implications of the current conflict in the region, noting that the Israeli government seems reliant on warfare for its survival, which complicates hopes for a ceasefire. BouHabib argued that the ongoing devastation, coupled with Lebanon’s economic struggles, highlights the urgent need for international dialogue and negotiation.
The conversation on Carnegie Connects underscores the critical state of Lebanon amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly concerning its relationship with Israel and the role of Hezbollah. This dialogue takes place against the backdrop of the recent escalation of violence following significant events, including the attack on Israel and the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The Lebanese government is grappling with the dual challenges of external threats and internal stability, underpinned by historical conflicts and current geopolitical dynamics. Minister BouHabib’s insights reveal a desperate call for peace and the imperative of international intervention, particularly from the United States, to foster a pathway toward resolving Lebanon’s multifaceted crisis.
In summary, the dialogue between Aaron David Miller and Minister Abdallah BouHabib elucidates the struggles faced by Lebanon in the wake of renewed conflict in the region. BouHabib’s reflections reveal a desire for peace and stability, highlighting a pervasive sense of despair among the Lebanese people. The conversation also underscores the critical need for diplomatic efforts, particularly by influential allies like the United States, to address the complex dynamics involving Hezbollah and Israel. With a significant majority of the Lebanese population yearning for peace, the urgency of constructive international engagement cannot be overstated.
Original Source: carnegieendowment.org
