Lankford Statement on Lebanon Explosion

Lankford Statement on Lebanon Explosion

WASHINGTON DC– Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today issued a statement on the explosion in Beirut, Lebanon:

“My family grieves with the thousands of affected families in Lebanon.  Prior to yesterday’s tragedy, Lebanon was at a critical point due to the economic and security challenges facing the Lebanese people, worsened  by regional terrorism, the Syrian civil war, financial mismanagement and a global pandemic. In the aftermath of yesterday’s explosion, the country faces a new set of challenges to overcome. The Lebanese people deserve a thorough and transparent investigation into the cause of this horrible explosion.

“As Lebanon responds, the US should offer any support we can give in the investigation and stand with the Lebanese people so that bad actors like Iran cannot exploit yesterday’s tragedy to perpetuate regional or sectarian conflicts. Lebanon has been a beacon for religious diversity and pluralism in the region for decades. A stable and secure Lebanon is in the best national security interest of the US and the whole region.  We stand readily available to assist the people of Lebanon in the days ahead.” 

As a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, Lankford has been a leading advocate for regional peace.  He most recently traveled to Lebanon in 2019 to advocate for a strong US-Lebanese partnership.  

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