An official Lebanese source told Al Jazeera Media Network that consultations are underway between Joseph Aoun, Nawaf Salam, and Nabih Berri to discuss the formation of a negotiating delegation in preparation for any potential talks with Israel.
According to the source, the delegation is expected to be formed at the ambassadorial level. Cyprus is the most likely venue to host the negotiations, although Lebanon remains open to holding the talks in any European capital. Several European countries have reportedly welcomed the Lebanese proposal, while Beirut is awaiting the position of the United States.
The source added that the presidency is seeking to ensure representation of various Lebanese political components within the negotiating delegation. However, the Speaker of Parliament has not approved the participation of a representative from the “Shiite duo” in the delegation.
The source also confirmed that Berri insists on the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 and conditions the start of any negotiations on reaching a ceasefire first.
He further noted that there is currently no communication between the Lebanese presidency and the leadership of Hezbollah regarding this matter.
