Berri: Hochstein brought forward “ideas” rather than a full-fledged “proposal”

Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker, Nabih Berri, has reported that U.S. negotiator Amos Hochstein brought forward “ideas” rather than a full-fledged “proposal” during his visit to Lebanon. This was revealed in an interview with Asharq al-Awsat newspaper, published on Friday. Berri mentioned that Lebanese officials responded with their own suggestions.

While there wasn’t complete agreement on all points, Berri mentioned that they would consider Hochstein’s ideas further and plan for subsequent discussions.

Expressing cautious optimism, Berri stated, “I cannot say that I am optimistic or pessimistic, but I say that there is a chance.”

This diplomatic exchange follows Hochstein’s trip to Israel and comes amid growing concerns over the potential escalation of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which has been ongoing since early October, to other regions. The conflict along the Lebanon-Israel border has led to the displacement of tens of thousands of civilians on both sides.

Hochstein emphasized the urgency of the situation and the preference for a diplomatic resolution. “We’re living in a crisis moment where we would like to see a diplomatic solution, and I believe that both sides prefer a diplomatic solution,” he said. “It’s our job to get one.”

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah recently highlighted what he sees as a significant opportunity for Lebanon to reclaim disputed border areas post-conflict and after the “aggression on Gaza.” Concurrently, Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed a preference for diplomacy over military action but warned of escalating tensions.

The ongoing violence across the Lebanon-Israel border has resulted in significant casualties. In Lebanon, 190 people have been killed, including over 140 Hezbollah fighters and more than 20 civilians, among them three journalists. In northern Israel, the conflict has claimed the lives of nine soldiers and at least four civilians, as reported by Israeli authorities.