American Delegation in Lebanon: Exploratory Mission and Messages

A delegation from the U.S. Congress, headed by Congressman Mark Takano and including Congress members Colin Allred and Katie Porter, arrived in Beirut for a "one-day" visit, according to a source accompanying the visit. It is expected to include a series of meetings with Speaker of the Parliament Nabih Berri, caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, as well as Army Commander General Joseph Aoun. This visit is anticipated to signal the start of a "U.S. approach regarding the political crisis Lebanon is experiencing, particularly concerning fears of the prolonged presidential vacancy which could lead to further economic and financial collapses and societal chaos." The source emphasized that while the mission of the congressional delegation is "exploratory, it carries messages that will become clear after the visit through a statement released by the U.S. Embassy."