US ambassador signals support for dialogue, meets al-Rahi in Bkerki

The U.S. ambassador to Lebanon, Michel Issa, said he respects Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and plans to meet him to clarify recent remarks referencing "Anjar and Aoukar."

Speaking from Bkerki after meeting Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, Issa said he conveyed his support and respect, adding that he chose to visit Bkerki in light of developments over the weekend that he said do not reflect Lebanon's tradition of coexistence.

Issa also addressed the possibility of a visit by President Joseph Aoun to the United States to meet President Donald Trump. He said such a visit would not be a loss for Lebanon, arguing that Aoun could present Lebanon's demands directly to Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, paving the way for negotiations.

He stressed that negotiations should not be viewed as a concession, adding that Netanyahu is "another negotiator," not someone to fear.

According to Issa, if Aoun travels to Washington, he would present key Lebanese demands, foremost among them the restoration and preservation of all Lebanese territory, amid ongoing disputes with Israel over land and security issues.