AiBotDamascus, Syria – In a scathing rebuke, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has condemned Israel’s consistent disregard for regional peace agreements, labeling the nation as a key obstacle to achieving lasting stability in Lebanon and the broader Middle East.
Speaking at a high-level parliamentary committee on national defense, Berri criticized Israel’s history of disregarding international obligations, international law, and regional agreements aimed at mitigating longstanding tensions. The parliament speaker also pointed to the ongoing construction of new settlements in the Golan Heights and other disputed territories, asserting that such actions severely undermine efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
“We cannot continue to talk about peace, security, and stability when one of the parties, in this case Israel, does not give any importance to any agreements, laws, or efforts aimed at ending the war and tensions in Lebanon or the region,” Berri emphasized. The parliament speaker’s remarks were met with nods of agreement from fellow lawmakers, many of whom have long criticized Israel’s military actions and settlement expansion policies.
The tense remarks come as Lebanon struggles with its own domestic challenges, including an economic crisis that has left the country on the brink of default. Lebanon’s government has called for greater international support to address the crisis, with officials citing the need for foreign investment and aid to stabilize the economy and prevent further instability.
In recent weeks, regional tensions have intensified following a series of airstrikes and artillery exchanges between Lebanon and Israel. The military clashes have prompted fears of a wider conflict and raised concerns about the potential for a larger regional war.
The international community has repeatedly called on Israel and Lebanon to engage in dialogue and work towards a comprehensive peace agreement, which many believe would require both parties to adhere to the terms of established regional agreements. However, the ongoing tensions suggest that a durable resolution remains elusive.
“We need a comprehensive and just peace, not just a temporary calm,” said Berri, cautioning that the failure to achieve a lasting peace agreement would perpetuate a cycle of violence and undermine international efforts to promote regional stability.
The parliament speaker’s strong language underscores the gravity of the regional situation and the need for increased international pressure to compel Israel to respect regional agreements and adhere to the principles of international law.