Josep Borrell, the European Union’s High Representative and Vice President of the European Commission, concluded a series of high-level meetings in Beirut on Thursday, emphasizing the EU's support for Lebanon amid growing regional tensions. 

Upon his arrival, Borrell met with Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, at the Grand Serail. The meeting, attended by EU Ambassador to Lebanon Sandra De Waele and a delegation from the European Commission, focused on the country’s internal challenges and regional instability. Advisors to the Prime Minister, former Minister Nicolas Nahas and Ambassador Petros Assaker, were also present.

Borrell also met with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri at Ain al-Tineh. The discussions revolved around Lebanon’s precarious position amid Israel's continued military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. Berri reportedly underscored the far-reaching impact of these hostilities on the Middle East’s stability, saying that Lebanon does not want war, but it has the right and capability to defend itself.

Berri praised Borrell for his "humanitarian stance, which reflects truth and justice" in the face of Israel’s aggression, noting that the situation has persisted for nearly a year. He further highlighted the EU envoy’s visit to UNIFIL forces in Naqoura, reportedly telling the EU diplomat that he "witnessed firsthand the arrogance and aggressiveness of Israel towards Lebanon."

On the domestic front, the Speaker acknowledged the challenges of governing under a presidential vacuum.

“The government is functioning within its constitutional powers,” Berri told Borrell, explaining that serious efforts are underway to resolve the vacancy through an initiative launched over a year ago.

Borrell’s meetings also included a discussion with Army Commander General Joseph Aoun at his office in Yarze. They reviewed the security situation along Lebanon’s southern border and broader regional developments. 

In a joint press conference with Borrell, Caretaker Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, praised the latter's visit as "an important indicator of the message he carries towards Lebanon," reiterating the country's position that peace in the region is contingent on resolving the Palestinian issue.

"There can be no security without ending the Israeli occupation," he said, further stressing Lebanon’s commitment to implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for peace along Lebanon’s southern border.

For his part, Borrell expressed concern over the broader ramifications of Middle Eastern tensions, warning that “the tensions in the Middle East have significant negative consequences for Lebanon and its people.”

He emphasized that "the European Union stands with the Lebanese people to overcome the challenges as much as possible," noting that the Lebanese seek "stability and peace, not war."

He also urged Lebanon’s leaders to focus on their country's welfare, cautioning against serving outside interests.

“Stability in Lebanon must be restored through ending the presidential vacancy,” Borrell said. "Lebanese institutions, including the presidency and the government, must return to functioning."

In his closing remarks, Borrell highlighted the severe toll Lebanon’s economic crisis and Israeli aggression have taken on its people.

"More than 4,000 buildings have been completely destroyed in Lebanon, and over 110,000 Lebanese have been displaced from their homes," he deplored, emphasizing the need for urgent economic reforms. “There is a need to reform the economy and restructure the banking sector,” Borrell said. “We are ready to continue supporting Lebanon, and we can help, but we cannot overcome the internal obstacles; only the Lebanese can do that.”

Reflecting on the broader conflict in the region, Borrell expressed deep concern about the humanitarian impact of the ongoing war in Gaza. "The war in Gaza threatens security and stability in the region, especially in Lebanon, and we condemn the brutal killing of civilians in Gaza."

### A Call for Comprehensive Solutions

Borrell concluded his visit with a call for a comprehensive settlement to the region’s challenges. “The full implementation of Resolution 1701 should pave the way for a comprehensive settlement,” he said, underlining that lasting peace requires political solutions, not just military responses.

As Lebanon continues to face both internal and external pressures, the European Union’s support remains critical. However, Borrell made it clear that the ultimate responsibility for overcoming the current crises rests with Lebanon’s leaders. “It is impossible to defend external interests without first achieving stability and unity at home,” he remarked, urging Lebanon’s political class to prioritize the nation's interests in order to secure a better future.