Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri responded to a French envoy’s suggestion of Hezbollah withdrawing 10 kilometers from the border and initiating talks for a truce with Israel by stating, “There are no security arrangements between us.”
Berri emphasized the importance of adhering to UN Resolution 1701, which governs activities along the border, as Lebanon’s national interest lies in compliance with this resolution, reported Al-Akhbar newspaper.
Berri urged the French delegation to persuade Israel to adhere to the international resolution, withdraw from occupied points, and halt all land, sea, and air violations. “Then you will find Lebanon more committed to its obligations under the resolution,” Berri stated.
The French delegation also heard Berri’s clear rejection of any proposed security arrangements, asserting that “there is no such thing as security arrangements between Lebanon and Israel,” and considering any such proposals as violations of Resolution 1701.
Berri questioned the role of UNIFIL and why it is not solely responsible for monitoring, highlighting that no visible military bases in the south require dismantling. He pointed out that the Lebanese Army operates throughout Lebanon, including the south, and controls any overt or stray weapons without external interference.
The delegation reiterated that their proposals, discussed with both American and Israeli sides, are flexible and open to modification and development.
