Lebanon Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri Rejects Direct Talks with Israel, Calls for Full Withdrawal

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri reiterated his firm opposition to any direct negotiations with Israel, saying his core positions remain unchanged. He emphasized that the only acceptable path is a strengthened ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from all occupied Lebanese territories.

Berri linked Lebanon’s stability to regional and international guarantees from Saudi Arabia, the United States and Iran, and highlighted his close relationship with President Joseph Aoun. He criticised the US‑mediated framework agreement as far worse than the 1983 May 17 Agreement and expressed skepticism about the political process led by President Aoun. Berri also noted the ongoing situation in the “pilot zones” – Zawtar al‑Gharbiya, Froun and Srifa – where Israeli forces continue operations despite civilian returns.