Lebanese Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati said in an interview with "Al Arabiya" and "Al-Hadath" that "there are significant obstacles facing government formation in Lebanon," emphasizing that he is not considering stepping down at this time and will not refuse to form a government in Lebanon. Mikati stated that there are some hurdles and "we hope to overcome them," warning that the situation in Lebanon remains extremely dangerous. He noted: "At every meeting, we start as if we are at square one, but I do not disclose everything to the media so as not to spread despair."
In response to a question regarding Iranian ships carrying fuel to Lebanon, Mikati said: "We are against anything that harms Lebanon's interests." He added: "No one wants further sanctions on Lebanon, but I tell the critics and the Arab League, 'give us a candle,' for we cannot say no to the ship without having an alternative, and Lebanon will remain within the Arab embrace."
He continued: "I have some questions about the government that I have not received answers to yet, and I hope my next visit to Baabda will be decisive," indicating that "the duration of the mandate is 'contracting,' and I do not allow myself to hold the mandate in my pocket, and everyone must understand that with every day of delay, we extend the crisis."
Since the resignation of Hassan Diab's government following the port explosion, disputes among political forces have prevented the formation of a government, which the international community requires to implement fundamental reforms in exchange for financial support to rescue Lebanon from its economic crisis. On October 22, Saad Hariri was tasked with forming a new government. However, he apologized for the task on July 15 following disagreements with Aoun. On July 26, Najib Mikati, who headed two governments in 2005 and 2011, was tasked with forming a new government.
