Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker, Nabih Berri, has unequivocally stated that normalization with Israel is not on the table. Speaking to the Lebanese Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, Berri emphasized the need for all relevant parties, including Lebanon, Israel, the United States, France, and the UN, to participate in indirect talks. He noted that civilian experts, such as geologists and mapping specialists, could be involved if necessary, similar to the Blue Line demarcation in 2000. Berri asserted that ongoing Israeli threats and airstrikes would not alter Lebanon’s firm stance on this issue.
A ceasefire has been in place between Hezbollah and Israel since November 27, 2024. However, the Israeli military continues to carry out sporadic strikes within Lebanon, citing operations against Hezbollah threats and maintaining positions along the border. These strikes have had a direct impact on Lebanon, with recent airstrikes on Saturday reportedly killing three people and injuring eleven others. Despite these hostilities, Lebanon is prioritizing its post-war reconstruction efforts. Public Works and Transport Minister Fayez Rasamny confirmed that reconstruction is a top government and presidential agenda item, though progress is hindered by continued Israeli attacks. The government has completed damage assessments and has a reconstruction plan, estimating war losses could surpass $11 billion. Lebanon is anticipating a $250 million World Bank loan to initiate facility rehabilitation, seen as a crucial starting point for the extensive rebuilding process.