Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard R. Verma met individually with Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dr. Fuad Hussein, Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, and Qatari Minister of State Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Khulaifi over the past two days in Paris.
The Deputy Secretary emphasized the United States' commitment to reaching a diplomatic resolution to end the conflict along the Blue Line which will allow Israeli and Lebanese civilians on both sides to return to their homes. He underscored the United States support for the Lebanese government and its sovereign institutions, including the Lebanese Armed Forces, as well as the Lebanese people, and the need for Lebanon to resolve its presidential vacancy with empowered leadership that reflects the will of the people. The Deputy Secretary and Ministers separately discussed renewed efforts to reach a durable ceasefire agreement in Gaza that would lay the foundations for the war to end, secure the release of all hostages, and surge humanitarian aid throughout Gaza. The Deputy Secretary reiterated his concern for the loss of civilian life and civilian suffering in both conflicts, reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to assisting all vulnerable populations, and emphasized the need for continued support. The Deputy Secretary reaffirmed the need to promote regional stability and thanked the leaders for their shared commitment towards fostering a diplomatic resolution to end these conflicts.
