Beirut: House Speaker Nabih Berri met at Ain El-Tineh Palace with former chief of the Progressive Socialist Party, Walid Jumblatt, who was accompanied by current PSP leader and head of the 'Democratic Gathering' bloc, MP Taymour Jumblatt, and former minister Ghazi Aridi. The meeting focused on recent developments, the general prevailing situation in Lebanon, and political updates within the region.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Jumblatt described the meeting as "friendly and warm" with his "historic ally." He emphasized the importance of negotiations not taking place under fire, acknowledging the appointment of Professor Simon Karam as head of the negotiating delegation and his qualities as a seasoned negotiator. Jumblatt outlined the key points of negotiation: withdrawal, ceasefire, consolidation of the ceasefire, and the return of people to their villages, while adhering to the Armistice Treaty despite changing circumstances.
Jumblatt addressed historical concerns, such as ambitions for the waters of the Litani, affirming the need to remember these issues. He reiterated Lebanon's adherence to the principle of "land for peace" in response to discussions on normalization with Israel and economic relations. He also supported the strengthening of the Lebanese army, particularly in the south, and expressed the need for external assistance for training and resources.
Responding to comments on Hezbollah's disarmament, Jumblatt suggested focusing on the mechanism and statements from the Mechanism Committee or the Five-Member Committee to prevent the use of weapons.