Jumblat Warns of ‘Open War’ Between Iran and Israel in Lebanon

Druze leader and former Progressive Socialist Party head Walid Jumblat has voiced a grim outlook on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanon, expressing doubts about any quick resolution to the “open war between Iran and Israel in Lebanon.”

In an interview with al-Akhbar newspaper, Jumblat dismissed rumors about peace negotiations, saying he has not seen any credible signs of an impending end to the fighting. “There are rumors, but I have no information suggesting the war will conclude soon,” he stated.

Jumblat noted that it is unclear who to approach within Hezbollah, especially after the escalation following Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah’s assassination. “In my view, it would be more effective to speak directly with the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he said, revealing that he recently declined a meeting request from an Iranian official. “I refused because, as long as Iran treats Lebanon as a ground for proxy wars against the U.S. and Israel, I’m not interested,” he explained, referring to Lebanon’s long history as a site of regional conflicts.

Regarding Lebanon’s options aside from “resistance” against Israeli threats, Jumblat emphasized the importance of respecting Lebanese sovereignty. He acknowledged that many Lebanese, possibly half the population, support reinforcing U.N. resolutions in the south and deploying the Lebanese army there instead of allowing Lebanon to remain a battleground.

When asked about Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea’s suggestion of electing a president without Shiite MPs in parliament, Jumblat voiced his opposition. He stressed that this issue is a fundamental matter tied to the National Pact, rather than merely numbers. “No group or sect should be sidelined,” he concluded.