Lebanon’s Caretaker Prime Minister Discusses Crisis Resolution with MPs

BEIRUT: Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati held crucial discussions on Tuesday with MPs Farid Khazen and Qassem Hashem, focusing on Lebanon's ongoing crisis and exploring potential resolutions including a ceasefire and the election of a new president. According to National News Agency-Lebanon, Mikati's first meeting with MP Farid Khazen at the Grand Serail was centered on addressing Lebanon's critical situation. Khazen underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire and the election of a new president as essential steps to resolve the crisis. He emphasized the interdependence of these measures, noting that initiating a ceasefire would help facilitate the election process and vice versa. Khazen also highlighted the importance of national unity and solidarity among the Lebanese populace. He called for these principles to be reinforced through concrete actions, not just in rhetoric. The upcoming spiritual summit in Bkerki, led by the Maronite Patriarch, was pointed out by Khazen as a pivotal event to symbolize and strengthen this unity. In a subsequent meeting with MP Qassem Hashem, discussions revolved around diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire. Hashem stressed the necessity for international pressure on Israel and commended Mikati's coordination with Speaker Nabih Berri in addressing the crisis. Moreover, Hashem expressed concern over the condition of displaced Lebanese, especially those from the Arqoub region, discussing government initiatives aimed at supporting them during this challenging period.