Saudi Foreign Minister Visits Lebanon After Decade-Long Diplomatic Rift
The visit follows Lebanon's political shifts, including new leadership, and reflects Saudi Arabia's support for reforms and regional stability.
- Prince Faisal bin Farhan's visit marks Saudi Arabia's first official diplomatic trip to Lebanon in over ten years, signaling a potential reset in relations.
- The visit comes after Lebanon elected its first president in over two years, General Joseph Aoun, and appointed Nawaf Salam as prime minister-elect, both seen as setbacks for Hezbollah's influence.
- Saudi Arabia expressed optimism about Lebanon's future under the new leadership and emphasized the importance of reforms to stabilize the country and improve its regional and international standing.
- The Saudi foreign minister reiterated support for the U.S.-brokered ceasefire that ended the recent conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, calling for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.
- Lebanon, which is grappling with a severe economic crisis, seeks to rebuild ties with Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, to secure economic support and boost trade and tourism.