Jumblatt: A new formula is needed to consolidate the ceasefire and keep UNIFIL in the south

Former Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Jumblatt said from عين التينة that “the last time I used the expression ‘the great ordeal,’ and that great ordeal has only deepened, but we must find the appropriate means to consolidate the ceasefire.”

Jumblatt added, underscoring his vision for a solution: “The furthest we can go is an armistice agreement with certain developments, and there must be a new formula. Personally, I stress the need for UNIFIL to remain in the south, because the decision to withdraw it is a mistake.”

In the same context, he reiterated his position on the international force, saying: “I stress that UNIFIL must remain in the south, because the decision taken to withdraw UNIFIL forces is a mistake, and I call for these forces to be protected from any attacks.”

He concluded by pointing to the mechanism for consolidating the calm, explaining: “One of the means of consolidating the ceasefire is negotiation according to a clear agenda based on withdrawal and the recovery of the land.”