Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri Alleges Israeli Expansion into Lebanon
Nabih Berri, Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker, asserts that Israel has extended its military presence one to two kilometers into Lebanese territory, beyond five established control points. He calls for unified action in response and warns against the international community tying aid to political conditions. Berri also criticizes Israel’s efforts to influence regional demographics, particularly regarding the Druze population.
On Tuesday, Nabih Berri, the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament and leader of the Shiite Amal party, asserted that Israel is extending its military control in Lebanese territory. In an interview with the Beirut daily, Ad-Diyar, Berri revealed that Israel has established a security zone that stretches one to two kilometers into Lebanon, beyond the existing five control points set up after the withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). This expansion reflects Israel’s ongoing expansionist ambitions.
Berri receives considerable support from Ad-Diyar, which praises his adept navigation of Lebanon’s complex political landscape. As a crucial actor during pivotal historical moments, Berri has maintained stability amidst the crises plaguing Lebanon, solidifying his position as a vital facilitator of dialogue among the nation’s diverse political factions.
Berri, who was born in Sierra Leone to Lebanese immigrants, returned to Lebanon as a child and attended school there and in Makkah. Known as Lebanon’s “Godfather,” the 87-year-old has played a significant role in Lebanese politics, shifting allegiances over time, from opposing Palestinian influences to aligning with Hezbollah.
The Speaker emphasized that Israel’s initiatives represent a serious threat rather than reassurance, and these actions validate Lebanon’s concerns about an imminent expansionist agenda. He highlighted the need for a unified response from Lebanon regarding any changes to the border situation and urged the international community to act against violations of Lebanese sovereignty.
In terms of reconstruction, Berri stated that Lebanon will reject any international aid proposals linked to political or military stipulations. He underscored that restoring areas damaged by Israeli attacks is a national priority while maintaining that sovereignty will not be compromised in securing support for rebuilding efforts.
Furthermore, Berri addressed the recent developments in Syria, criticizing Israel’s manipulative strategies regarding demographic changes and its perceived protection of groups like the Druze. He recognized Druze leader Walid Jumblatt for his steadfast opposition to these schemes, reiterating the rejection of Israeli occupation of Lebanese land.
In summary, Nabih Berri has brought attention to Israel’s recent expansion of control into Lebanese territory, asserting the importance of a unified national front in response to these actions. He has advocated for Lebanon’s sovereignty in the context of international aid and has condemned Israel’s interference in regional demographics. Berri’s longstanding role as a facilitator of dialogue and stability in Lebanese politics continues to shape the country’s response to ongoing crises.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
