The Lebanon ceasefire remains a central issue as Prime Minister Nawaf Salam warned Friday that rejecting a ceasefire would mean the continuation of war on the country. He emphasized that negotiations were chosen as the least costly path for Lebanon and its people.
Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri expressed support for a coordinated withdrawal of Hezbollah from south of the Litani River, in parallel with the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territories still under occupation.
Salam: Negotiation Is the Least Costly Option
Speaking at a press conference followed by the Iraqi News Agency, Salam said the government opted for negotiations because they represent the least costly option for Lebanon and its citizens.
He called on all Lebanese to act with reason and prioritize national interest, stressing that the return of displaced residents to their homes in the south remains a key priority.
Salam noted that negotiations are ongoing but stressed that dialogue alone is insufficient as long as fighting continues. He warned that rejecting a Lebanon ceasefire would effectively mean prolonging the war, adding that the destruction extends beyond Lebanon’s heritage to what he described as a broader human legacy.
Berri Supports Parallel Withdrawal South of Litani
Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri said he supports Hezbollah’s withdrawal from areas south of the Litani River, provided that Israeli forces simultaneously withdraw from Lebanese areas they continue to occupy.
Berri stated that any ceasefire arrangement should cover:
– Land
– Sea
– Air
He also called for a complete halt to military operations, bulldozing activities, and demolitions, insisting that all parties must adhere to the truce terms in a coordinated and reciprocal manner.
Concerns Over Ceasefire Implementation
Berri added that the announced ceasefire framework had been “booby-trapped” with experimental zones without the involvement of active parties, suggesting concerns over how the agreement would be implemented.
These remarks come amid continued hostilities and diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing the southern front and preventing further escalation.
Broader Context of the Conflict
The debate over the Lebanon ceasefire unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing clashes and displacement in southern Lebanon.
Key developments include:
Continued military operations despite diplomatic efforts.
Calls for a comprehensive ceasefire covering all domains.
Proposals for coordinated withdrawals south of the Litani River.
Prioritization of displaced civilians’ return.
The success of any truce will depend on reciprocal compliance and effective implementation mechanisms on the ground.
Conclusion:
As negotiations continue, Lebanese leaders stress that a Lebanon ceasefire is essential to prevent further devastation. While Salam urges acceptance of a truce to avoid prolonged war, Berri calls for parallel and coordinated steps to ensure any agreement is balanced and enforceable.
