Lebanon’s Speaker Berri: Chances of Ceasefire with Israel Now Over 50%
Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri stated that the likelihood of reaching a ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel is now greater than 50%. In an interview with Al-Modon newspaper published on Saturday, Berri noted: “This time, there is reason for optimism. The Americans are very serious, and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has given the green light to envoy Amos Hochstein to broker a ceasefire in Lebanon. Additionally, based on what we’ve been told by the Americans, the Israelis also want to end the conflict.”
Berri emphasized that there is “no agreement to form an international committee to monitor the implementation of UN Resolution 1701, nor to introduce multinational or NATO forces. Instead, there will be a commitment to Resolution 1701, with enhanced cooperation between UNIFIL forces and the Lebanese Army.” The agreement will take some inspiration from the 1996 April Understanding, which established a monitoring committee that included Lebanon, Israel, the U.S., France, and the United Nations.
Berri further asserted that “there is absolutely no provision for allowing Israel military freedom of action. On the contrary, once a ceasefire is reached, there will be guarantees to stop Israeli attacks on Lebanon by land, sea, and air. That is why we seek a ceasefire; otherwise, what is the point of an agreement?” When asked about Israel’s request for guarantees, Berri responded swiftly: “The U.S. is Israel’s guarantee. The Americans never miss an opportunity to reiterate their support for Israel, both offensively and defensively.” Berri concluded by stating that these are decisive days, as everyone wants to stop the war. However, the real test will be in the implementation and Israel’s commitment.
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