Lebanon’s Speaker Raises Alarm Over Israel’s Ceasefire Violations, Pushes for Presidential Election
Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri voiced serious concerns over escalating tensions with Israel, revealing over 52 violations of the ceasefire agreement since its implementation. In an exclusive interview with Al-Jumhuriya, Berri minced no words, stating "these violations are a clear breach of the agreement and cannot be allowed to continue."
The Speaker refuted any notion of complacency, highlighting ongoing communication with international organizations to address these Israeli transgressions. He expressed optimism for the potential formation of a Steering Committee, a critical development that hinges on the participation of France. "I hope that the Steering Committee will be completed," Berri stated, "after they begin their work when the side of France with him."
Berri, a seasoned negotiator, drew parallels between the current situation and the 2006 war, emphasizing the absence of a crucial ally this time. "This is not the first time, because I went through a similar experience in 2006 before," he shared, "But it is the only big difference this time I didn’t have a basic column to my side, the martyr is Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah."
Shifting gears to Lebanon’s internal affairs, Berri expressed steadfast determination to hold a presidential election on January 9th. Demonstrating his commitment to the promised timeline, he declared, "I have great hope that the January 9th parliamentary session will lead to the election of the President of the Republic."
Refuting any external influence on his decision to set a date for the election session, Berri clarified that it was a unilateral decision made immediately upon his arrival back in Beirut. "The matter was not this," he stated, "on coordinate with any outside party, and even the French ambassador Jean-Yves. Le Drian was not aware of it beforehand."
Committed to a Lebanese solution, Berri underscored the necessity of a president genuinely representative of the nation. "The next president will be of Lebanese nature," he stressed, "and I can only accept that he should be, no matter how much it seems that there is interference from outside in this case."
His message to the members of the Five Year Committee was clear: "I told them that I hoped they would help us in any way we want, not the they want," stressing a desire for their assistance rather than dictation.
Berri outlined a plan focused on consensus building, emphasizing the urgency of securing a president who enjoys broad support. "There will be the effort concentrates in the period between the date of the session towards seeking consensus – a president that is accepted by the widest constituency. But even if that does not happen," he warned, "Consensus, as I will continue to hold the session until the end."
He additionally outlined his vision for the new president’s relationship with Hezbollah and the Amal movement, stating, "It does not have to be close to the movement and Hezbollah. But what is important… that is he will not be hostile to them, or to any other side."
When questioned about the possibility of Suleiman Franjieh remaining a viable candidate, Berri responded succinctly, "It is known…"
He offered an optimistic outlook on post-election government formation, stating, "It is possible to create a new government just one month after the birth of the president if he is elected by consensus."
With a hint of humor, Berri concluded the interview with a playful response to a question about the anticipated height of the next prime minister, "Tall…"
2024-12-02 07:29:00
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## A Nation on Edge: Analyzing Lebanon’s Uncertain Future with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri
**World Today News Exclusive Interview**
**By:** [Your Name] – Senior editor, World Today News
**Beirut, lebanon**: The peaceful Mediterranean façade is marred by a simmering tension. Lebanon finds itself grappling with a fragile ceasefire with Israel, marred by escalating violations and a political vacuum at the helm. At the heart of this complex situation sits Nabih Berri, the country’s seasoned Parliament Speaker, tirelessly navigating a treacherous path towards stability. In an exclusive interview with World Today news,Speaker berri pulls back the curtain on Lebanon’s precarious reality.
**WTN:** Speaker Berri, you recently expressed deep concern over Israel’s ceasefire violations. Can you elaborate on the nature and frequency of these breaches?
**Berri:** these are not mere technical infractions. Since the ceasefire agreement came into effect, we have documented over 52 blatant violations.This includes incursions into Lebanese airspace, overflights by Israeli drones, and even ground violations along the Blue Line.
These actions are not only a clear breach of the agreement, but they also jeopardize the fragile peace we have fought so hard to maintain. We cannot, and will not, allow this situation to fester.
**WTN:** What steps is Lebanon taking to address these violations?
**Berri:** we are engaging with international organizations, utilizing all diplomatic channels at our disposal to bring these violations to light and demand accountability.
We are actively pursuing the establishment of a Steering Committee, a critical mechanism for monitoring the ceasefire and addressing any breaches.This effort is contingent upon the participation of key stakeholders, especially France.
**WTN:** There are reports that France is hesitant to participate in the Steering Committee. What are your thoughts on this progress?
**Berri:** I am hopeful that France will join our efforts. We understand the complexities involved, but their involvement is crucial for the success of this committee. We are continuing our dialog and remain confident that we can overcome these hurdles.
**WTN:** Beyond the international dimension, Lebanon faces internal challenges, notably the prolonged presidential vacuum. How does this political impasse impact the country’s ability to deal with external threats?
**Berri:** The absence of a president undoubtedly weakens our position on the international stage. It hinders our ability to speak with a unified voice and present a cogent strategy for dealing with these challenges.
The formation of a new government is paramount. We need a strong and united leadership to navigate these complex waters and ensure stability for our nation.
**WTN:** Speaker Berri, you are known for your pragmatism and expertise in navigating Lebanese politics. What message do you have for the Lebanese people in these uncertain times?
**Berri:** My message is one of unity and resilience. We,the lebanese people,have weathered countless storms throughout our history.We must not allow fear or division to cripple us.
Let us stand together,across all political divides,and work towards a future that is peaceful,prosperous and secure for all Lebanese.
**WTN:** speaker Berri, thank you for your candid remarks and for sharing your insights with World Today News.
