Israel Normalization ‘Out of Question’ for Lebanon: Speaker Berri

Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri of Lebanon has unequivocally declared that normalization with Israel is ‘out of the question.’ He stressed the necessity of including all pertinent parties—Lebanon, Israel, the United States, France, and the UN—in any indirect negotiations. Berri suggested that the deployment of civilian experts, akin to those involved in the 2000 Blue Line delimitation, could be utilized for specific technical tasks. He adamantly stated that Israel’s persistent threats and airstrikes would not influence Lebanon’s firm diplomatic stance. Although a ceasefire has been operational since November 27, 2024, the Israeli army continues to conduct occasional airstrikes within Lebanon, targeting what it describes as Hezbollah ‘threats’ and maintaining troop deployments along the border. These actions are severely disrupting Lebanon’s critical post-war reconstruction initiatives. Saturday witnessed three Israeli airstrikes in eastern and southern Lebanon, resulting in three deaths and eleven injuries. The Lebanese government, prioritizing reconstruction, faces significant obstacles. Minister of Public Works and Transport Fayez Rasamny noted that Israeli strikes repeatedly disrupt fieldwork. Comprehensive assessments of the war’s impact have been completed, with estimated damages potentially reaching over $11 billion. Lebanon is preparing to commence reconstruction with a $250 million loan from the World Bank, viewing it as a foundational contribution to rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure.