Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri recently expressed several concerns and priorities following the formation of a new government in Lebanon. Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, along with President Joseph Aoun and Speaker Nabih Berri, have been working to address critical issues facing the country [1[1][2[2][3[3].
berri emphasized the importance of the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, noting that Israel has been delayed in withdrawing from five points in southern Lebanon after February 18, which violates the agreement under the auspices of the Americans. He called on the Americans to enforce the Israeli withdrawal from all Lebanese lands and stressed the necessity of implementing the terms of the agreement related to the ceasefire and the spread of the Lebanese army.
Additionally,Berri expressed concern about the ongoing events on the eastern border with Syria,suggesting that these events may be an attempt to revive an old project to deploy international forces on the border between lebanon and Syria.
Berri also stressed the necessity of changing or amending the current election law, which he believes is no longer suitable after the 2018 and 2022 elections. he pointed out that the law needs to be modified, especially by adding a second preferential vote to eliminate sectarianism and sectarian control over the electoral system in Lebanon.Berri highlighted the importance of these challenges in the next stage and stressed that the new government is responsible for implementing urgent reforms. He emphasized the need for cooperation with the international community to achieve national goals.
Lebanon’s Focus on Israeli Withdrawal,Border Security,and Electoral Reforms
Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri recently articulated several critical concerns and priorities following the formation of a new government in Lebanon. Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, alongside President joseph Aoun and Speaker Nabih Berri, have been diligently addressing the contry’s most pressing issues.
Interview with Dr. Abdul Rahman, Middle East Specialist
We sat down with Dr. Abdul Rahman, a renowned specialist in international relations and Middle Eastern politics, too discuss the recent developments in Lebanon and what these priorities mean for the country’s future. below is the full interview.
Israeli Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon
Q: Can you explain the significance of the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and why this remains a priority for Speaker Berri?
A.
The Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon is a critical issue that has been ongoing for many years. Speaker Berri has long maintained that Israel’s delay in withdrawing from specific points in southern Lebanon after February 18 violates the agreement facilitated under American auspices. The withdrawal is essential for Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as for maintaining regional stability.
Concerns along Lebanon’s Eastern Border with syria
Q: What are your thoughts on Berri’s concerns about events on the eastern border with Syria?
A.
Berri’s concerns about the eastern border with Syria are justified given the ancient precedent. Traditionally, Lebanon has tried to avoid any entanglement in regional conflicts, notably those involving its powerful neighbors. The events along the border may indeed be seen as attempts to revive past projects for international force deployments, which woudl have meaningful implications for Lebanon’s security and stability.
Election Law Reforms
Q: Why is Berri pushing for changes to the current election law,and what are the expected benefits?
A.
Berri believes that the current election law is outdated and no longer suitable for the contemporary political landscape, especially following the elections in 2018 and 2022. By proposing amendments, particularly the addition of a second preferential vote, he aims to address sectarianism and reduce sectarian control over the electoral system. This would possibly lead to more inclusive and fair elections, fostering a healthier political environment in Lebanon.
Cooperation with the International Community
Q: How significant is international cooperation for Lebanon’s new government, and what role might this play in achieving national goals?
A.
International cooperation is crucial for Lebanon’s new government to achieve its national goals. The country is facing numerous challenges, from economic crises to security and political reforms. By cooperating with the international community,Lebanon can garner the necessary support,both in terms of financial aid and diplomatic backing,to undertake the urgent reforms needed for long-term stability and prosperity.
Conclusion
Dr.Abdul Rahman’s insights underscore the complexity and gravity of the issues facing Lebanon today.From the Israeli withdrawal to border security and electoral reforms, these priorities are essential for the country’s future. with the new government in place, effective collaboration with the international community will be key in navigating these challenges and achieving lasting change.