UK’s Defence Senior Advisor Concludes Strategic Visit to Lebanon.

Beirut: The UK Defence Senior Advisor to the Middle East and North Africa, Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, has concluded his visit to Lebanon, where he engaged in high-level discussions with Lebanese and United Nations officials. During these meetings, Vice Admiral Ahlgren emphasized the United Kingdom's call for an immediate ceasefire and a political resolution in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. He also expressed his condolences for the recent losses suffered by the Lebanese Army and civilians. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Vice Admiral Ahlgren held talks with Nabih Berri, the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, and General Joseph Aoun, the Chief of Defence for the Lebanese Armed Forces. He also met with Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, and conducted a virtual meeting with Major General Aroldo Lázaro, the Force Commander and Head of Mission for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Accompanying him during these e ngagements were British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell and Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Charles Smith. Vice Admiral Ahlgren reiterated the UK's commitment to supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), highlighting their role as the legitimate military arm of Lebanon. He noted the UK's recent delivery of essential food and medical supplies to the LAF and mentioned the £15 million humanitarian aid provided to displaced families in Lebanon, which includes food, medicine, and clean water. British Ambassador Hamish Cowell underscored the deteriorating situation in Lebanon, pointing out the increasing civilian casualties. He stressed the UK's position, advocating for a ceasefire between Israel and Hizballah, adherence to international humanitarian law, and the need for humanitarian assistance in Lebanon and the surrounding region. Cowell also highlighted the significance of Vice Admiral Ahlgren's visit as a demonstration of the strong military ties between the UK and Lebanon, affirming the UK's ongoin g role in supporting Lebanon's stability and security through its partnership with the LAF.