Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati affirmed that the government continues its internal and external contacts "to keep the situation calm in Lebanon as much as possible and to distance Lebanon from the repercussions of the ongoing war in Gaza." He emphasized that "these contacts are being made away from media sensationalism to ensure their success and to avoid causing panic among the people," pointing out that "the accusations directed at the government regarding negligence are political accusations without any basis in reality."
During his meetings at the Grand Serail on Monday, President Mikati stated: "There is complete Lebanese unity in solidarity with Palestine, but no one has an interest in embarking on the adventure of opening a front from southern Lebanon, as the Lebanese people are not able to bear it." He added, "Lebanon is in the eye of the storm, and the entire region is in a difficult situation; no one can predict what might happen. The situation changes by the hour and events are unfolding, and no one can foresee anything. However, it is certain that Israel seeks to amplify its provocations."
He continued: "We are carrying out the necessary contacts quietly and away from media display, as exaggerating discussions about these contacts will create additional fear among the people. Some ask why we haven't called for a meeting of the Supreme Defense Council, which is chaired by the President; is it necessary to provoke an additional internal issue? Out of concern for everyone, I called all security leaders to a Cabinet meeting."
He added: "In the face of this calm work, we see some criticize for the sake of criticism or out of malice and ask where the government is. The Disaster Management Committee at the Grand Serail has held more than five meetings since last Thursday until today." He noted that "there is complete Lebanese unity in solidarity with Palestine, but no one benefits from embarking on the adventure of opening a front from southern Lebanon, as the Lebanese people cannot endure it. Some ask who has the power to make war and peace, and under the current circumstances, we are working for peace; however, the decision for war lies with Israel, and we need to deter it and stop its provocations to avoid creating tensions."
He highlighted that "Israel has quickly formed a government; let the Lebanese wills unite to elect a president and form a unifying government to show complete and collective concern for the nation. Is there a more dangerous circumstance for everyone to set aside their conditions and elect a new president as soon as possible and assign a Prime Minister to form a new government and grant it trust quickly to enable it to work?"
He concluded: "It seems that through the ongoing regional and international communications, there is significant pressure to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza. Additionally, the statement from the American president early today, indicating that he does not advise Israel to enter Gaza, the position of the Egyptian president, and the ongoing diplomatic movement in our region are all factors signaling calm in the event that Israeli assaults cease."
