US calls for opening diplomatic channels between Lebanon, Gulf states

The United States yesterday called for opening diplomatic channels between Lebanon and the Gulf states, after tensions mounted following the release of statements by Lebanese Minister of Information, George Kordahi, regarding the war in Yemen.

“We believe that diplomatic channels, and lines of communication between Lebanon and its partners should remain open,” State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.

Lebanese Foreign Minister, Abdallah Bou Habib, yesterday called for solving the current “problem” between his country and Saudi Arabia through “dialogue” and “to give priority to the common Arab interest.”

Before his appointment as a minister on 20 September, Kordahi said in a TV show recorded in August and broadcast on 25 October, that the Houthis in Yemen were defending their country against an external aggression, in reference to the Saudi-led Arab coalition.

Lebanon has been looking to receive aid, especially from Gulf countries, as it has been suffering the worst economic crisis in its history.

During the past few days, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Yemen announced the withdrawal of their ambassadors from Beirut and expelled Beirut’s envoys from the Gulf.

Kordahi has refused to apologise for the comments and asserted that he would not apologise or resign for his personal opinion.

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