Berri: We are not placing much hope in the Washington talks... but I will not speak now, and when we are finished, I will have something to say.

Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri affirmed that Lebanon’s position is based on supporting indirect negotiations aimed first at reaching a genuine ceasefire agreement, while at the same time questioning whether a ceasefire is actually in place in light of the current developments.

Berri stressed that the other side has not adhered to any agreement since October 2024, raising serious questions about the viability of any negotiating track unless it is built on a clear and firm commitment.

Regarding the current round of talks in Washington, Berri expressed reservations about its outcome, saying he was both optimistic and pessimistic about the current course, while emphasizing that he does not support the option of direct negotiations at this stage.

He indicated that he preferred not to elaborate for now on the details of the negotiations, saying the position would be clarified later once the round has concluded.

He concluded by stressing that any future agreement must come under an umbrella of guarantees involving international and regional parties, including Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United States, in a way that ensures continued implementation and prevents collapse.