Beirut, Lebanon — In a stance reflecting the critical nature of the current phase and the magnitude of pressures gripping Lebanon, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam affirmed on Saturday that the Lebanese government has resolved to pursue the path of negotiations as the sole means to protect the country. Nevertheless, the government is fully aware that “their outcomes are not guaranteed.” Salam underscored that this decision, notwithstanding its difficulty, remains the “least costly option” for the Lebanese people. He compared this option to the severe repercussions of an open-ended war that has ground on for months.
Non-Negotiable Red Lines Under State Sovereignty
In a candid and responsible address delivered from the Grand Serail, Salam confronted the legitimate questions raised by the Lebanese public regarding the feasibility of the diplomatic track. He stated: “Are the results guaranteed? Certainly not. But it is the path of least cost for our nation and our people. Is it a surrender? Also, no.” He clarified that the negotiating team is operating with high professionalism. They place “achieving an immediate ceasefire” at the top of its priorities. At the same time, Salam highlighted non-negotiable core objectives: full Israeli withdrawal, the release of detainees, and laying the groundwork for reconstruction alongside the safe and dignified return of displaced citizens. He added: “This path is neither easy nor short, but it becomes shorter and we become stronger when all efforts unite under the umbrella of the Lebanese state.”
Widespread Destruction and Collective Punishment
Salam warned that Lebanon is facing a “dangerous and unprecedented Israeli escalation.” He pointed out that Tel Aviv has transitioned to executing a “policy of total destruction” targeting cities and towns. In his view, this amounts to internationally prohibited “collective punishment.” The Prime Minister noted that the war machinery has struck all foundations of life—including hospitals, schools, and production facilities, extending to archaeological landmarks. He characterized it as an attempt to uproot the memory of the land and erase the history of its people.
Rejecting Proxy Wars on Lebanese Soil
In a clear reference to regional geopolitical dynamics, Salam emphasized that this war was imposed on Lebanon. He added: “We are determined to fortify our country and protect the future of our children, preventing our homeland from being turned once again into a mailbox for regional or international messages, or allowing it to be used as an open arena for others’ proxy wars and conflicts.” He concluded by re-asserting the intensification of diplomatic maneuvers. Additionally, he called for national alignment behind the state to avert darker scenarios.
