US Under Secretary of State for Middle East Affairs David Hale confirmed that the mismanagement in Lebanon has led to the current  deteriorating situation, stressing that “the time has come to form a government that stops the collapse and America is ready to help, but we want to see reforms,” according to him.

After his meeting with President Michel Aoun in Baabda Palace, Hale explained that he came to Lebanon at the request of the Foreign Minister to stress the US government’s commitment to the issue of Lebanon, “as the Lebanese people are suffering because the leaders have failed to address the economic problems,” as he put it.

He also pointed out that “Hezbollah and illegal activities prevent the establishment of a peaceful state just as Iran finances that,” adding: “America will not leave its friends and Lebanon, and we are ready to facilitate negotiations on the maritime borders that will have economic benefits to address the crisis.”