Berri told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “rejected the Lebanese road map that was agreed upon with the American envoy to Lebanon, Amos Hochstein, who has not communicated with us since he left Tel Aviv,” indicating that there is no positivity in his talks in Israel.
Berri considered that this matter leaves the situation in Lebanon “depending on developments on the ground,” expressing his fear of “turning Lebanon into a second Gaza.”
Berri reiterated Lebanon’s affirmation of its principles in this field, most notably its adherence to International Resolution 1701.
The caretaker Prime Minister in Lebanon, Najib Mikati, said earlier that “Israel’s expansion of the scope of its aggression against Lebanon and its repeated threats to the population to evacuate entire cities and villages, and targeting the southern suburbs with destructive raids, are all indicators that confirm its rejection of all efforts being made for a ceasefire in preparation for the full implementation of Resolution 1701.” “.
Mikati also denied what was reported by Reuters that the United States had asked Lebanon to declare a unilateral ceasefire with Israel in order to revive stalled talks to end hostilities between Israel and Lebanon.
Mikati’s office said, in a statement, that the government’s position is clear regarding seeking a ceasefire on both sides and implementing UN Security Council Resolution No. 1701.
Source: Middle East
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**Interview with Dr. Leila Mansour, Middle East Analyst**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Mansour. With the recent escalation of Israeli airstrikes and the reported rejection of the Lebanese road map by Prime Minister Netanyahu, how do you see the current situation evolving in Lebanon?
**Dr. Mansour:** Thank you for having me. The situation is indeed precarious. Speaker of the Parliament Nabih Berri’s comments reflect a deep frustration with the stalled negotiations and a fear that Lebanon could face severe consequences similar to those in Gaza. The international community needs to pay attention to this developing humanitarian crisis.
**Interviewer:** Berri mentioned that Lebanon is now “depending on developments on the ground.” What does this mean for the citizens of Lebanon who are caught in this conflict?
**Dr. Mansour:** It means uncertainty and fear. If the hostilities escalate, as we’ve seen with the recent airstrikes, it places immense pressure on civilian populations. Berri’s reference to the potential for Lebanon to become another Gaza highlights the urgent need for a diplomatic resolution.
**Interviewer:** Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s office denied reports of the U.S. asking for a unilateral ceasefire from Lebanon. How does this refusal to accept such a proposal affect the negotiations?
**Dr. Mansour:** It complicates matters significantly. A unilateral ceasefire would likely be viewed as a sign of weakness by the Lebanese government, and it underscores the broader issue of sovereignty. Mikati’s insistence on a mutual ceasefire reflects Lebanon’s stance on equality in negotiations, but it raises the question: can both sides afford to hold out while tensions continue to rise?
**Interviewer:** Absolutely. How do you think these developments impact the role of international mediators, particularly the United States?
**Dr. Mansour:** The U.S. has a crucial role to play, but its current approach appears ineffective. The inability to facilitate meaningful dialogue or to communicate effectively with both sides raises questions about its influence in the region. A different strategy may be required, one that incorporates a greater understanding of Lebanon’s position and the nuances of its leadership.
**Interviewer:** what message do you have for our readers concerning the tensions between these two nations? What should they consider as they absorb this news?
**Dr. Mansour:** Readers should understand that beneath the headlines and political rhetoric are real human lives affected by these decisions. It’s essential to consider the long-term implications of military actions and how they shape the socio-political landscape in the Middle East. Dialogue and diplomacy should be prioritized over aggression; otherwise, the cycle of violence will persist, with civilians bearing the brunt of the consequences.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Mansour, for your insights on this complex issue.
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**Discussion Point for Readers:** In light of the recent events and the failure of diplomatic efforts, do you believe Lebanon should pursue a ceasefire unilaterally, or should it hold out for a mutual agreement with Israel? What do you think the implications of either decision would be for the future of Lebanon?
