Berri Regarding Buffer Zone: Israel Should Implement it on Their Side

Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri expressed his desire for Israel to adhere to U.N. resolution 1701, which calls for Israel’s withdrawal from various disputed areas. In an interview with al-Liwaa newspaper published Friday, Berri stressed his hope for Israel’s implementation of the resolution, encompassing the Shebaa Farms, Kfarshouba Hills, the village of Ghajar, 13 contested points, and area B1. He clarified that he hadn’t discussed this matter with any diplomat and was unaware of a potential visit by U.S. energy envoy Amos Hochstein, which might address the land border demarcation between Lebanon and Israel.

There have been media speculations about a potential agreement leading to Hezbollah’s withdrawal from the area south of the Litani River, in exchange for Israel’s retreat from the occupied Lebanese territories and the 13 contested points. This area could become a buffer zone to enhance the security of northern Israel’s residents.

Berri, however, suggested that this buffer zone should be established on the Israeli side of the border. Meanwhile, Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced on Tuesday that U.N.-sponsored discussions are anticipated in the upcoming months. These talks aim to settle disputes along the border with Israel, with Mikati expressing optimism about reaching a state of complete stability on Lebanon’s borders within the next three months.