Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a key ally of the Iran-backed Hezbollah group, stated early Monday that the trilateral framework agreement involving Lebanon, Israel, and the United States will not pass because it fails to secure Lebanon's rights. Berri, who leads the Amal movement, issued a statement saying, "This agreement will not pass, and it will not be implemented in its current form." He described the deal as "an agreement of 'dictates', not an agreement that preserves Lebanon's rights."
Details of the Framework Agreement
The framework agreement, announced recently, aims to pave the way for Lebanese-Israeli peace. A key provision conditions the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory on the disarmament of Hezbollah, the powerful Shia militant group and political party that has been a major military and political force in Lebanon. The United States has been mediating the talks, which have faced significant opposition from Hezbollah and its allies.
Hezbollah's Stance and Regional Tensions
Berri's comments come amid heightened tensions in Lebanon. In a symbolic act of defiance, a billboard displaying the phrase "Lebanon first" in Arabic along Beirut's airport road near a Hezbollah stronghold was defaced with the words "Army, People, Resistance" and set on fire. This incident reflects the deep divisions within Lebanese society over the agreement. Hezbollah has historically opposed normalization with Israel and maintains a large arsenal of rockets and weapons, which it says are necessary for defending Lebanon against Israeli aggression.
Political Implications
The deal's requirement for Hezbollah's disarmament is a major sticking point. Hezbollah is considered a terrorist organization by many Western countries, but it is also a participant in Lebanon's coalition government. The group's military wing has been a key player in regional conflicts, including the Syrian civil war. Berri's rejection of the agreement underscores the challenges facing the US and Israel in securing a comprehensive peace deal. The framework agreement was seen as a potential breakthrough in the long-standing conflict between Israel and Lebanon, but Berri's statement suggests that it may not gain the necessary political support in Lebanon.
International Reactions
The United States has not yet responded to Berri's statement. However, US officials have expressed optimism that the agreement could lead to lasting peace and security in the region. Israel has also remained silent, but Israeli leaders have previously stated that they would only withdraw from Lebanese territory if Hezbollah disarms. The situation remains fluid, and it is unclear whether the deal can be salvaged. Berri's warning that the agreement will not pass in its current form indicates that negotiations may need to be reopened to address Lebanese concerns.
