Walid Jumblatt criticizes failed negotiations and warns of normalization risks

Former Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Jumblatt has expressed pessimism regarding recent negotiations, stating they have yielded no results. During a book signing for his memoirs, “Qadar fi hadha al-Mashriq,” Jumblatt criticized the current situation in Southern Lebanon, describing it as a systematic destruction of homes, heritage, and cemeteries.

Jumblatt argued that Lebanon entered negotiations from a position of weakness and should have adhered to existing agreements, specifically the 1949 Armistice Agreement. He expressed significant concern regarding normalization with Israel, warning that it could undermine the Lebanese Army’s doctrine, which identifies Israel as an enemy.

Regarding regional dynamics, Jumblatt noted that Israeli policy is driven by a biblical logic and influenced by Christian Zionism in the United States. He emphasized the need for internal Lebanese dialogue, including with Hezbollah, to ensure stability. He also called for strengthening national unity and improving relations with Syria, warning that the region is entering a highly dangerous phase where Arab nations may pay the highest price.