Lebanon

Lebanon's Speaker Berri Optimistic About Ceasefire Amid Iran-US Agreement

Lebanon's Speaker Berri Optimistic About Ceasefire Amid Iran-US Agreement

Nabih Berri, Lebanon's Speaker of the House, expressed satisfaction over the spontaneous return of residents to their homes in Southern Lebanon and the suburbs, highlighting it as a sign of the southern community's resilience and attachment to their land.

Berri voiced his approval of the recent memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington, noting that Lebanon is mentioned multiple times, particularly regarding the cessation of war and Israel's withdrawal. He affirmed his initial belief in the Islamabad process without compromising Lebanon's sovereignty, as reported by 'Al Joumhouria'.

Addressing concerns about dissatisfaction with the Iran-US agreement, Berri countered, "Anyone feeling upset about the agreement is not truly Lebanese."

He emphasized that the agreement benefits all parties, including Lebanon, marking it as a significant achievement that few expected.

Berri anticipated that the comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon would largely hold, stressing that Israel does not have freedom of movement under the memorandum. The priority, he said, is to ensure Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon, a point highlighted in the 60-day negotiations between Iran and the United States.

Discussing the feasibility of trial zones, Berri argued that Lebanon is divided into districts rather than trial zones, demanding Israel quickly withdraw from occupied southern districts without delay.

When asked about the Lebanese aspect of the agreement and its distinction from the failed November 2024 pact, Berri replied, "This time, Trump personally took responsibility, and Iran is actively involved. This agreement is broader than just Lebanon."

He admitted concern following Israel's recent attack on the suburbs, which risked derailing the agreement, but noted Iran's restraint in not retaliating harshly, thereby thwarting Netanyahu's plans.

Berri detailed that each of the 14 points in the agreement was meticulously crafted, akin to weaving a Persian carpet, underlining that patience is vital in politics—a skill Iran has mastered according to 'Al Joumhouria'.

Our readers are reading too