Metri: “No negotiations under fire” — Lebanon’s position grounded in national legitimacy

Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri stressed, in an interview with Al-Jadeed TV, that Lebanon remains committed to de-escalation as a necessary entry point for any negotiation process amid the ongoing escalation, emphasizing that negotiations cannot take place while military operations continue.

He said: “Lebanon is determined to secure a truce that would allow negotiations, and there can be no negotiations under fire.”

Mitri revealed that the Lebanese side was not previously informed of the negotiation track, stating: “We learned about the negotiations when Netanyahu announced his position.”

Regarding the Lebanese state’s stance, he affirmed that the legitimacy of representation strengthens Lebanon’s negotiating position, saying: “Lebanon’s position in negotiations derives its strength from the fact that it speaks on behalf of the Lebanese people and represents Lebanese legitimacy.”

On the government’s relationship with Hezbollah, he pointed to the continuation of dialogue, adding: “We are a government that represents legitimacy and includes ministers who reflect the party’s viewpoint, and we will engage in dialogue as we always do.”

In a related context, he addressed the issue of restricting arms in Beirut, noting the reasons behind this approach, and said: “There are motives for this decision, foremost among them reassuring the Lebanese people.”