Resolution 1701, approved in 2006 after an earlier war, calls for the disarmament of non-state groups in Lebanon – an allusion to the Iranian-funded Shiite movement Hezbollah, which effectively runs its own military – and for a full Israeli withdrawal from the country.
Blinken said it was critical to “get the understandings that are necessary for the full implementation of 1701”.
“The sooner we’re able to do that, the sooner we’re able to get a resolution,” he added.
He called for protection in the meantime of both civilians and Lebanese soldiers, at least 11 of whom have died since Israel launched its offensive a month ago.
“We want to make sure that in places like Beirut, there is a real effort to make sure that people are unharmed and civilians are not caught up in this crossfire,” Blinken said.
