Israel violating the rules of engagement, Lebanon open to negotiate

During a meeting with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the U.N. Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri expressed concerns over Israel’s increasing aggression. According to Berri, Israel’s actions are not only a breach of U.N. Resolution 1701 but also a violation of fundamental engagement principles, as they target residential areas, civilians, ambulances, and journalists.

This meeting, also attended by UNIFIL leader Aroldo Lazaro and U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka, coincided with a separate discussion involving caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati. Mikati urged the international community to intervene and stop the Israeli aggression towards Lebanon. He emphasized Lebanon’s commitment to stability and peace, noting the country’s readiness to enter into negotiations for lasting peace in southern Lebanon and along the northern borders of occupied Palestine.

Mikati affirmed Lebanon’s commitment to adhere to U.N. resolutions, including the 1949 Armistice Agreement and Resolution 1701, while expressing frustration over receiving international warnings about potential warfare on Lebanon.