In a clear declaration, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has asserted that normalization with Israel is not an option. Speaking to the Lebanese Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, Berri advocated for a comprehensive dialogue involving Lebanon, Israel, the US, France, and the UN for indirect discussions. He clarified that the participation of civilian experts for technical assessments, similar to the 2000 Blue Line demarcation process, would be considered. Berri underscored that ongoing Israeli threats and aerial bombardments would not sway Lebanon’s firm position. A ceasefire, established in late November 2024 between Hezbollah and Israel, has not entirely halted Israeli military actions. The Israeli army maintains a presence along the Lebanese border and conducts occasional strikes, identifying them as responses to Hezbollah ‘threats.’ These military actions are hindering Lebanon’s reconstruction plans. On Saturday, a series of Israeli airstrikes claimed lives and injured several individuals in eastern and southern Lebanon. The Lebanese government, despite these disruptions, has made postwar reconstruction a paramount concern. Minister of Public Works and Transport Fayez Rasamny highlighted that fieldwork is frequently impeded by Israeli attacks. Comprehensive damage assessments have been completed, revealing potential war losses up to $11 billion. Lebanon anticipates a $250 million loan from the World Bank to commence rehabilitation projects, recognizing it as a starting point for a long and arduous reconstruction journey.
