Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has characterized the framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, brokered by the United States, as 'dictations.' He believes it is 'ten times worse than the May 17 Agreement' and has asserted that the agreement 'will not be implemented.'
In an interview with Al Akhbar newspaper, Berri stated, 'Ten times May 17 or this agreement,' expressing his opposition to the process that led to the agreement.
He also urged against any street protests or reactions that might be exploited to plunge the country into chaos and internal conflict, warning that the most dangerous aspect accompanying the agreement is potential attempts to incite internal divisions.
Furthermore, Berri stated that ministers from the Amal Movement 'will not boycott any Cabinet session where the agreement is discussed; we will confront it there and take our stand,' reaffirming that 'this agreement cannot pass and will not be implemented.'
Berri pointed out that the 'only realistic opportunity' to compel Israel’s complete withdrawal lies in the 'U.S.-Iranian negotiation path,' arguing that any direct negotiations with Israel under American and Israeli terms 'will only prolong the occupation.'
Addressing rumors about the potential dismissal of Army Commander General Rudolf Hikal, he told the newspaper: 'No one should joke about this, and no one should tamper with the army,' emphasizing that the military institution is a 'red line.'
Regarding his relationship with President Joseph Aoun, Berri commented, 'He doesn’t contact me, and I don’t contact him.'