US Policy on Lebanon: Conversation with Assistant Secretary of State for NEA Ambassador Barbara Leaf
Lebanon faces a plethora of economic and political challenges amidst a difficult regional and global geopolitical context. On the economic front, the country is suffering from the rapid collapse of its economy, a severely devalued currency, high debt and rising poverty rates. On the political front, parliamentary elections that took place in May have yet to bring about significant change, as gridlock and infighting continue to impede presidential elections and block progress toward critical reforms.
In a change of fortunes, the United States successfully brokered an agreement on the maritime boundary between Lebanon and Israel, although the long-term impacts of the deal on Lebanon, its people, and the region remain to be seen. U.S. support to Lebanon is paramount to keep the country moving towards implementing much needed reforms, allowing Lebanon to rebuild institutions that are stronger, more transparent, and more capable than those that created the current crises.