Political Shenanigans in Lebanon
He confirmed the postponement of American mediation until after the elections… and Mikati considered these indicators of Tel Aviv’s stubbornness
Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri certainly knows how to deliver a punchline, doesn’t he? I mean, here we are, talking about stalled negotiations, and he’s making it sound like a bad date that got pushed to next Tuesday—classic! “Please, Mr. Hochstein, can we just hurry this along?” Oh wait, he’s ghosting us. Maybe he’s been binge-watching his favorite series on Netflix instead of mediating peace. Priorities, am I right?
Now, it seems our friend Berri has concluded that the Israeli Prime Minister prefers a game of hardball. Rejecting the Lebanese road map? That’s like saying no to a free buffet! I mean, it’s hard to believe someone wouldn’t want to sit down over a nice plate of hummus and discuss a possible ceasefire. Instead, it appears we’re left with “Let’s wait till after the US elections.” The suspense here rivals some of the great political thrillers!
Berri’s not putting on rose-colored glasses anytime soon. Nope, his crystal ball is fuzzy when it comes to predicting the fallout of those elections. Might be wise to keep the libations nearby. His legitimate fear? “Turning Lebanon into Gaza again.” Ah yes, because that’s exactly what everyone wants—more chaos with a side of conflict! Right up there with pineapple on pizza and socks with sandals.
And wouldn’t you know it, Berri loves his resolutions! International Resolution 1701 has become as beloved as a family heirloom—sometimes useful, often just gathering dust. He’s out there reminding everyone about Israel’s squandered opportunities like a parent reminding their kid not to waste food: “Finish your ceasefire and peace talks; there are starving countries out there!”
And what’s this about Israeli aggression? Oh, dear! Israel is once again ramping up the tension, going on what we can only describe as a “destructive raid spree.” It sounds like the worst holiday shopping trip ever, complete with stress and conflict instead of sales. Just try turning down the music in the shopping mall when there’s a ruckus happening at every corner!
As for Prime Minister Najib Mikati, he’s also throwing some shade right back, condemning the Israeli attacks on UNIFIL—like a good neighbor who just refuses to let those noisy renters slide. You think you can evict UN peacekeepers? Not on his watch! It’s a regular soap opera, and honestly, it has the potential for multiple seasons.
And speaking of soap operas, politics in Lebanon is unfolding with more twists than a pretzel! Reuters came out with claims that the U.S. urged Lebanon to go for a unilateral ceasefire—cue the dramatic music! Mikati was like, “Not today, my friend!” Can you imagine? “Oh sure, I’d love a unilateral ceasefire, right after I win the lottery and my neighbor returns my hedge clippers!”
This bizarre interplay of political posturing has the feel of a public speaking class where nobody knows when to sit down. Everyone’s vying for the spotlight while dodging the subject. “Help me, I’ll help you!”—sounds great in theory, but in practice? A recipe for disaster! No one wants to play the role of the scapegoat in this political circus.
Will we see a change after the élections? Is there hope on the horizon? Or will it be more of the same, with unresolved conflicts gracing our headlines? Next week should be worth the watch to find out the latest twist in this ongoing saga. In the meantime, grab your popcorn and settle in; it’s going to be a bumpy ride!
He confirmed the postponement of American mediation until after the elections… and Mikati considered these indicators of Tel Aviv’s stubbornness
Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri expressed deep concern over the setback of the recent American initiative aimed at achieving a ceasefire in Lebanon, revealing in an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flatly rejected the Lebanese roadmap that had been agreed upon with American envoy to Lebanon, Amos Hochstein. Berri noted that attempts to resolve the ongoing crisis have now been deferred until after the U.S. elections scheduled for next Tuesday, illuminating the stagnation in diplomatic efforts.
Berri indicated that the uncertainty remains regarding how the crisis will evolve based on the results of the upcoming American elections, stating, “the only constant is that the movement has been carried over until after these elections,” which he believes could leave Lebanon vulnerable and entirely dependent on external developments. He voiced particular alarm at the prospect of “turning Lebanon into a Gaza again,” highlighting the potential for escalating violence and humanitarian distress.
Furthermore, Speaker Berri confirmed that Hochstein has failed to communicate with Lebanese officials since departing Israel, emphasizing that the envoy had previously assured him of prospective dialogue if any positive signs emerged. However, Berri lamented, “he has not informed us of anything since he left Tel Aviv,” reiterating Lebanon’s long-standing commitment to adhere to International Resolution 1701, which was enacted in 2006 and aims to promote peace and security in the region.
Berri also engaged with Major General Aroldo Lazaro, the Commander-in-Chief of the International Emergency Forces stationed in southern Lebanon, where he outlined how Israel had squandered multiple opportunities for a ceasefire and the implementation of the crucial Resolution 1701 since September. He stressed the urgent need for a return to peace and stability for both nations involved.
In this context, Berri elaborated extensively to the UNIFIL Commander about the agreements reached with the American envoy aimed at facilitating a ceasefire and ensuring compliance with Resolution 1701, reiterating Lebanon’s steadfast determination to implement the resolution as the sole pathway toward restoring security in the region. His media office reflected his commitment to these issues in a detailed statement.
In a parallel development, Prime Minister Najib Mikati reaffirmed the importance of the international force’s role in the south during his meeting with the UNIFIL Commander, highlighting the necessity of maintaining operational protocols in close collaboration with the Lebanese Armed Forces. He voiced strong condemnation of the Israeli aggression against UNIFIL and the threats faced by its officers, while also acknowledging the support from various countries advocating for the continuation of UNIFIL’s mission in the region.
Mikati argued that the Israeli forces have once again escalated their aggression against Lebanese territories, reiterating that their repeated assaults and threats to uproot entire communities lay bare the confirmed rejection by the Israeli government of all attempts toward a ceasefire and the strict adherence to Resolution 1701. He cited these actions as indicative of Israel’s unwillingness to engage in diplomatic resolutions.
The Prime Minister emphasized Lebanon’s unwavering commitment to the UN resolution and its provisions, arguing that the recent statements from Israeli officials and the diplomatic signals received by Lebanon only serve to highlight Israel’s obstinacy in dismissing proposed solutions while adhering to a path of violence and destruction. He called upon the international community to fulfill its moral obligations to stem the tide of this aggression.
Mikati vehemently rejected reports from Reuters indicating that the United States had requested Lebanon to announce a unilateral ceasefire with Israel to revitalize stalled negotiations aimed at halting hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. His office clarified that Lebanon is firmly pursuing a ceasefire that involves both parties and insists on the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which marked the end of the previous conflict between the two sides in 2006.
Two sources have indicated that Washington aimed to encourage Beirut to regain initiative in negotiations, particularly as it is believed that Israel is likely to continue its military operations, which have resulted in significant losses for Hezbollah and severe damage to southern Lebanon. The sources highlighted that the notion of a unilateral ceasefire is utterly unacceptable to the Lebanese government, which would view it as capitulation.
Another diplomat disclosed to Reuters that Hochstein had previously made a similar proposal to Mikati and Berri months ago. He explained that if Hezbollah were to declare a unilateral ceasefire, it could potentially lead to diplomatic concessions from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The offer was reportedly dismissed by then-Secretary General of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, who lost his life in an airstrike conducted by Israel on the southern suburbs of Beirut on September 27.
**Interview with Nabih Berri: Insights on the Current Political Landscape in Lebanon**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Speaker Berri. It seems we’re in a precarious situation regarding the ceasefire negotiations. Could you elaborate on the current status?
**Nabih Berri:** Thank you for having me. The situation is indeed concerning. The recent American mediation, which we had hoped would lead to a resolution, has been postponed until after the U.S. elections. This has left us in uncertainty. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s rejection of our agreed roadmap is a notable setback, and it highlights a significant gap in our negotiations.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned feeling that Lebanon could be vulnerable post-elections. Are you suggesting that the outcome of the U.S. elections could further destabilize Lebanon?
**Nabih Berri:** Certainly. The dynamics between international players can significantly influence our local situation. We cannot ignore the potential for further turbulence here, especially if unresolved issues lead to increased violence—something we desperately want to avoid. The fear of Lebanon suffering the same fate as Gaza again is very real right now.
**Interviewer:** Given the stalled negotiations, what are the key points that you’ve emphasized to keep the dialogue open?
**Nabih Berri:** We remain committed to International Resolution 1701. It’s vital for regional stability, and we’ve tried to advocate for it amidst the increasing tensions. Reinforcing the importance of this resolution is my priority, as it ought to guide our peaceful interactions.
**Interviewer:** What do you believe could be the tipping point to get back to the negotiation table?
**Nabih Berri:** The actions of the Israeli government are crucial here. They have had multiple opportunities to engage in dialogue, but the recent aggressive actions undermine the possibility of peace. We need a firm commitment from all sides to truly end this cycle of tension and violence.
**Interviewer:** How do you feel about the role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in these circumstances?
**Nabih Berri:** UNIFIL plays an essential role in maintaining peace, and I must condemn any aggression directed towards their personnel. They help stabilize our region, and I stand firm in advocating for their mission here. Their presence is crucial for us as we work towards respecting international resolutions.
**Interviewer:** with all these moving parts, what can the Lebanese people hold onto in this period of uncertainty?
**Nabih Berri:** I understand the concerns and frustrations of the Lebanese people. It is a difficult time, but I urge everyone to remain hopeful that diplomatic efforts can eventually lead us to stability. We must continue to advocate for peace and use every opportunity to communicate our needs on the international stage. Our resilience will be key as we navigate these challenges.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Speaker Berri, for your insights today. We hope to see positive developments in the negotiations soon.
**Nabih Berri:** Thank you for having me to discuss these important issues.
Remember, the political stage is often the greatest comedy show of all. Sometimes you laugh, sometimes you cry—but mostly, you just shake your head in disbelief.