The UK Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Harvey
Smyth, completed a two-day visit to Lebanon on
Tuesday 23 April. This was his first visit to the
country and his focus was to discuss UK efforts for de-escalation
in the region.
Air Marshall Smyth met with Caretaker Prime Minister Najib
Mikati, Speaker Nabih Berri, General Joseph Aoun, Chief of
Defence for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), and Minister of
Foreign Affairs Abdallah Bou Habib. In his messages he
reiterated UK's support to the strengthening of LAF and for the
people of Lebanon. He emphasised UK's ongoing commitment to
support LAF as it delivers stability and security across Lebanon
despite the country's challenges.
In north Lebanon, he saw how the hard-working officers and
soldiers of the 1st Land Border Regiment continue to
professionally secure Lebanon's sovereignty and to combat
smuggling and terrorist activities along more than 100km of the
border with Syria.
At the end of his visit, Air Marshall Harvey Smyth said:
I have seen first-hand the excellent partnership between the
British and Lebanese Armed Forces on the Syrian border, and
during my meetings I reiterated the UK's position that Lebanon
must not be dragged into a regional conflict.
The UK is working closely alongside our Lebanese partners to
de-escalate tensions in the region and ongoing hostilities along
the Blue Line, whilst calling for an end to the fighting in Gaza.
British Ambassador to Lebanon, Hamish Cowell said:
Now, more than ever, it is important that we work together to
avoid further escalation in South Lebanon and the region. The UK
remains committed to supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces during
these challenging times, and will work with international
partners towards peace and long-term stability.
