Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri Rejects Experimental Zones in Israel-Lebanon Withdrawal Talks

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri said the proposal for "experimental zones" in the framework for Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon is unacceptable. He warned that the plan would extend the occupation by up to two years, noting that most of the areas are not currently occupied and could drag the Lebanese army into internal clashes and sectarian strife, which he said would only serve Israel’s interests.

Berri criticised the earlier direct negotiations that produced the "framework" agreement, stating they yielded no real benefits for Lebanon’s rights. He said he would welcome any negotiation track that leads to a genuine Israeli pull‑out, the return of displaced residents, the release of prisoners and reconstruction of the south. He also referenced the recent US‑brokered agreement and the broader US‑Iran memorandum of understanding that calls for an immediate halt to hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon.

The Israeli side, represented by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, described the framework as a major achievement, while Israeli forces remain in the security belt pending the full withdrawal of Hezbollah’s weapons. Berri’s remarks underscore Lebanon’s insistence on a swift and complete end to the Israeli presence.