Lebanon has taken a firm stance ahead of upcoming negotiations in Washington, with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stating that no agreement will be signed unless it includes a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.
Speaking in an interview with the Washington Post in Paris, Nawaf Salam stressed that Lebanon cannot accept any arrangement that includes a so-called buffer zone or continued Israeli presence.
He made the remarks after meeting French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit.
Opposition to buffer zones
Salam strongly rejected the idea of a buffer zone, saying Lebanon cannot live with conditions that prevent displaced citizens from returning home.
He added that destroyed villages and towns must be rebuilt, emphasizing the importance of restoring normal life in affected areas.
Role of US in negotiations
The Lebanese prime minister said the country is entering talks with the belief that the United States holds significant leverage over Israel.
He noted that Washington played a key role in securing the ceasefire and expressed hope that it would continue to influence future developments.
Addressing another key demand from Israel and Western countries—the disarmament of Hezbollah—Salam said it cannot happen overnight.
He described it as a long-term process rather than an immediate condition tied to negotiations.
Salam also emphasized that Lebanon is not making concessions simply by participating in dialogue.
He admitted uncertainty about the outcome of negotiations but stressed clarity on the country’s core demand: full sovereignty and withdrawal of foreign forces.
.jpg)
