Lebanese PM: Waiting for Regional Deal Not an Option

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam urged on Friday the mobilization of resources to achieve a full Israeli withdrawal and rebuild the state with a single decision and army, stating that "waiting for a major regional settlement" is not an option for Lebanon. Salam made these remarks during a press conference on the sidelines of a tour in the southern city of Nabatieh, amidst ongoing Israeli military actions in southern Lebanon.

Salam emphasized that the "true guarantee" lies in simultaneously rallying support for a complete Israeli withdrawal and for rebuilding a capable state with unified military and political decision-making, particularly regarding war and peace. He believes this approach will shield the country from new wars and remove pretexts for further aggression.

He reiterated Lebanon's priorities: halting Israeli attacks, securing a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, enabling the safe return of displaced people to their homes and livelihoods, and restoring life to southern cities and villages. Salam stressed that Lebanon cannot afford to wait for a regional settlement, which may never materialize or could come at Lebanon's expense.

Acknowledging the severe crisis and the suffering of those who lost homes or livelihoods, Salam stated that the scale of needs exceeds the Lebanese state's capacity to bear the burdens alone. He assured the residents that efforts are underway to secure necessary funding for the South's recovery, despite the limitations.

Despite a ceasefire declared in June, Nabatieh and its surroundings have faced intense Israeli strikes. Salam's visit is the second by a high-ranking official to the city since the conflict began, following a visit by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun last month. Salam's tour includes inspecting security facilities that were damaged and rebuilt, and laying the foundation stone for a new Civil Defense headquarters.

Lebanese authorities are striving to advance reconstruction efforts despite limited resources. Salam announced the launch of 23 tenders in the Nabatieh district, including road repairs, shelter rehabilitation, and the provision of ambulances and medical equipment, aiming to support the resilience and presence of residents in their land.

Since March 2, Israeli actions in Lebanon have resulted in at least 4,386 deaths, 12,413 injuries, and over a million displaced individuals. A US-brokered "framework agreement" signed on June 26 by Beirut and Tel Aviv outlines a gradual Israeli withdrawal, yet attacks continue and Israel still occupies parts of southern Lebanon.