Berri and Sources Reaffirm Hezbollah Will Stay Out of Iran-Israel War

Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri reaffirmed on Monday that Hezbollah will not participate in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, according to statements reported by Lebanese media. He emphasized that Lebanon is committed to remaining outside this war and will not allow itself to be drawn in.

Berri stated with certainty—using firm language—that Lebanon will not enter the conflict, reinforcing prior assurances that the country would avoid providing any justification for Israel to reopen hostilities on its soil. This position comes after private discussions among leaders from Amal, Hezbollah, and the government, all focused on preserving Lebanon’s neutrality despite rising regional pressure.

These developments follow recent Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets, which have significantly escalated the Israel–Iran confrontation. Since the November ceasefire with Hezbollah, Israel has continued limited strikes in southern Lebanon and remains positioned on several strategic hills.

Political and Strategic Implications

Berri’s remarks reflect a broader consensus among Lebanese officials, including President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam, who have repeatedly urged calm and emphasized the nation’s fragile recovery following last year’s war. The government’s neutral approach aligns with pressure from both the U.S. and European partners to contain any regional escalation.

Hezbollah’s new leadership, including Secretary-General Naim Qassem, recently reiterated the group’s solidarity with Iran while clarifying that it does not intend to directly engage against Israel. Analysts say that Hezbollah, weakened from the 2024 conflict, appears to be exercising strategic restraint, balancing its ideological ties to Iran with domestic and international considerations.

Lebanon’s current government, a technocratic coalition led by Prime Minister Salam, has prioritized national stability and implementing UN Resolution 1701. This framework, along with oversight by international stakeholders, aims to restrict militia activity and reinforce Lebanon’s sovereignty.