Mortada: No Concrete Steps Toward Ceasefire; Cautions Against Misleading Optimism.

Beirut: Caretaker Culture Minister, Mohammad Wissam Mortada, on Thursday told Al-Mayadeen that there's 'no genuine development to suggest an imminent ceasefire.' Mortada emphasized that despite recent discussions, Lebanon has not observed any substantial progress toward halting hostilities. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Mortada attributed the recent wave of optimism to U.S. sources that are promoting a favorable outlook to support the Democratic Party's electoral interests. This sentiment, he suggested, is particularly targeted at Lebanese-American voters, following former President Trump's promise to alleviate the policies of the Biden-Harris administration. Mortada expressed criticism toward Israel's actions, describing them as "misleading maneuvers." He recalled similar tactics used during the early clashes in Gaza, indicating that Lebanon remains cautious and skeptical of these developments. He reiterated Lebanon's position, as articulated by Speaker Nabih Berri, which calls for a ceasefi re under Resolution 1701 or a continuation of resistance if necessary. The Culture Minister concluded by affirming Lebanon's preparedness, stating that the resistance possesses the capability to counter Israeli aggression for an extended period. Mortada underscored that Lebanon's defense strategy is equipped to endure not just for months, but for years if required.