Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri emphasized in an interview with 'Al Joumhouria' that the Lebanese government is intensifying its communications with the U.S. to expedite the implementation of the 'framework agreement' and start Israeli withdrawal from southern regions. This initiative aims to separate the Lebanese theater from the Iranian path and prove the effectiveness of direct negotiation. However, Berri maintains reservations about this approach, citing the ongoing Israeli tactics of delay and maneuvering.
Berri condemned what he described as continued destructive acts by Israel in the occupied southern villages despite a recent agreement with Washington. He expressed sorrow over the demolition and arson affecting these areas.
Recounting the visit of Qatar's former Emir, the late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, to southern Lebanon after the 2006 war, Berri praised Qatar's role in reconstruction. He revealed that he accompanied the Emir on his visit, despite being under treatment, in appreciation of Qatar's support for Lebanon. Berri also mentioned assigning a parliamentary delegation to offer condolences to the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Regarding the renewed U.S.-Iran confrontation, Berri described the regional atmosphere as 'negative and grim' due to the ongoing escalation. He hopes for the crisis to be contained and considers returning to negotiation and implementing the memorandum of understanding as the ultimate solution.
In response to whether recent developments favor aligning Lebanon with Washington over other paths, Berri stated, 'I won't mind if any path yields a positive result that stops aggression and ends occupation.' He added, 'Let them offer substantial achievements to silence me, not illusions... I haven't seen anything yet.'
Berri stressed that direct negotiations leading to the 'framework agreement' have so far not yielded tangible benefits for Lebanon. He affirmed that he would welcome any progression that leads to Israeli withdrawal, the return of displaced persons, the release of prisoners, and reconstruction, adding, 'Ultimately, I care about the outcome, not obstructing progress.'
The Speaker reiterated his rejection of the proposed 'experimental areas,' arguing that implementing this option would extend the Israeli withdrawal for about two years. He suggested adopting districts instead, as many of the areas proposed under this idea are not occupied. He warned that the plan could embroil the Lebanese army in internal conflicts and ignite unrest that only serves Israel's interests, aiming to trap Lebanon, intending to counteract these efforts 'with all our might and wisdom.'
Concluding his remarks, Berri expressed skepticism about the upcoming negotiation round in Rome between Lebanese and Israeli delegations, anticipating it will only extend the current path without achieving significant progress.