US Envoy Morgan Ortagus Praises Lebanese Diaspora, Highlights Lebanon’s Crucial Crossroads

In a speech delivered during a reception at the Lebanese Embassy in Washington, U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, praised the Lebanese diaspora and emphasized that Lebanon is at a critical turning point in its history.

The event was held on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings.

Ortagus announced that President Donald Trump is preparing for his first official visit to the region, with Saudi Arabia as his main stop, underlining the administration's focus on Middle Eastern affairs.

Reflecting on her appointment alongside Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Ortagus noted that the administration inherited a region plagued by instability but remains committed to advancing peace. She described her engagement with Lebanon as both an honor and a priority, referring to the Lebanese people as "friends and partners."

She commended President Joseph Aoun for his courage and resolve in pursuing reforms, calling him a rare example of bold leadership capable of steering the country toward recovery.

Highlighting the Lebanese diaspora, particularly in the United States Ortagus described it as one of the most accomplished and influential in the world. She stressed the need for unity between Lebanese at home and abroad to drive meaningful reform and economic revival.

Ortagus cautioned against returning to past failures, insisting that only through firm leadership, governance reforms, and restoration of basic public services can Lebanon move forward. She reaffirmed U.S. support for Lebanese leaders willing to make difficult but necessary decisions, stating that the country stands on the threshold of a brighter future, if it chooses the path of progress.

"The road ahead demands courage and action," she concluded. "Going backward is not an option."