Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has firmly rejected any possibility of normalization with Israel, asserting that such a move is ‘out of the question.’ In an interview with the Lebanese Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, Berri called for comprehensive indirect talks that would include Lebanon, Israel, the United States, France, and the United Nations. He suggested that the participation of civilian experts, like those consulted during the 2000 Blue Line demarcation, could be beneficial. Berri also made it clear that Israeli threats and airstrikes would not sway Lebanon’s unwavering position.
The fragile ceasefire, established on November 27, 2024, has not stopped occasional Israeli military actions in Lebanon. Israel claims these strikes target Hezbollah ‘threats,’ while maintaining a military presence at five key border points. Recent incidents underscore the continued tension, with Saturday’s airstrikes in eastern and southern Lebanon resulting in casualties. Meanwhile, Lebanon remains committed to rebuilding its infrastructure, despite the disruptions caused by these attacks. Minister Fayez Rasamny highlighted reconstruction as a paramount priority for the government. Comprehensive damage assessments have been finalized, with estimated war losses potentially reaching over $11 billion. A World Bank loan of $250 million is expected to kickstart the rehabilitation of essential facilities, serving as an initial step in a long reconstruction journey.