Nabih Berri Denounces U.S.-Brokered Lebanon-Israel Deal

The accord hinges on a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, strictly conditional upon the disarmament of Hezbollah. Once verification of this disarmament is achieved, the Lebanese army would assume control of the southern territories. Israeli officials have signaled their readiness to initiate this transition, framing the move as a significant diplomatic breakthrough.

Berri, however, remains skeptical of the framework, arguing that the path to a genuine Israeli withdrawal lies in direct negotiations between Washington and Tehran. He cautioned that isolating Lebanon from these broader regional discussions may inadvertently prolong the Israeli military presence. While the Lebanese government remains under intense pressure to accept the U.S.-backed plan, the reality on the ground is complicated by significant dissent from Hezbollah, which views the security conditions as an unacceptable infringement on its position.