Nabih Berri, Speaker of Lebanon’s Parliament, claims Israel has expanded its security zone into Lebanese territory, now stretching one to two kilometers beyond established control points. He urges national unity in responding to these violations and insists on rebuilding Lebanon without foreign political conditions. Berri opposes Israel’s attempts to manipulate demographic issues in Syria and highlights the resolve of Lebanese leaders against foreign occupation.
Nabih Berri, the Speaker of Lebanon’s Parliament and leader of the Shiite Amal Party, asserted in an interview with the Beirut-based daily Ad-Diyar that Israel has expanded its security operations beyond the previously established five control points. He indicated that Israel is now enforcing a security zone that extends one to two kilometers into Lebanese territory, altering the status quo along the border.
The daily Ad-Diyar commended Speaker Berri for his pivotal role in Lebanese politics during challenging times, likening him to a guarantor of dialogue among the country’s diverse political factions. With ample experience in navigating Lebanon’s complex political landscape, Berri has been a significant figure, particularly regarding national stability amidst ongoing crises.
Speaker Berri, who has served as the Speaker of Parliament since the implementation of Lebanon’s National Charter, emphasized that the assertive policies of Israel’s extreme right only serve to reinforce fears of its expansionist intentions. He reaffirmed that the new Israeli occupation of land, extending into Lebanese territory, will not be tolerated, urging a collective national response to any changes on the ground.
He also called on the international community to intervene and address the ongoing violations of Lebanese sovereignty. Regarding international aid and reconstruction efforts, Berri expressed that Lebanon would reject any conditions tied to political or military issues, particularly concerning Hezbollah. He stressed that rebuilding from the damage caused by Israeli actions is a national imperative that must respect Lebanon’s sovereignty.
In reflecting on recent developments in Syria, Berri accused Israel of trying to manipulate demographic changes under the guise of protecting certain groups, including the Druze. He acknowledged Druze leader Walid Jumblatt’s unwavering opposition to these plans and praised his strong stance against Israeli occupation, particularly in relation to southern Lebanon.
In summary, Speaker Berri’s statements highlight Lebanon’s firm position against Israeli expansionist policies and affirm the need for national unity and international cooperation to safeguard Lebanon’s sovereignty and facilitate reconstruction efforts.
Speaker Nabih Berri’s recent statements provide a clear stance against Israeli incursions into Lebanese territory. He emphasizes the need for national unity to respond to shifts in borders and insists on the importance of international support for Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts without compromising its sovereignty. His commentary on both local and regional dynamics illustrates his commitment to preserving Lebanon’s integrity amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
