Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri warned against Israel’s expansionist policies and the creation of a new occupied zone along Lebanon’s southern border, stressing that Lebanon would not accept the imposition of new realities on the ground.

In an interview with Addiyar newspaper, Berri firmly rejected any attempts to tie reconstruction aid to political or military conditions, particularly regarding Hezbollah’s weapons north of the Litani River or other domestic matters.

“Lebanon will not accept any conditional assistance,” he said, emphasizing that rebuilding what was destroyed by Israeli aggression must be a national priority. He added that Lebanon is seeking international support but will not compromise its sovereign rights or make concessions that undermine its national principles.

Berri accused Israel’s far-right government of continuing its expansionist agenda, saying its policies “do not inspire confidence” but rather confirm its ongoing occupation plans.

He revealed that Israeli forces have not only seized five border hills but have also re-established an occupied buffer zone extending one to two kilometers inside Lebanese territory. “This practically means the emergence of a newly occupied area along Lebanon’s southern border,” he said.

Berri stressed that Lebanon is monitoring the situation closely and will not allow the imposition of new facts on the ground. He called for a unified national stance on border changes and urged the international community to take responsibility for halting repeated violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty.

Berri also warned that Israel is not only attempting to impose a new reality in Lebanon but is actively interfering in Syria’s internal affairs. He accused Israel of manipulating Syria’s demographic composition under the pretext of protecting certain communities, particularly the Druze.

Turning to domestic politics, Berri revealed that Lebanon’s electoral law may undergo amendments, though he ruled out a fundamental overhaul.

One key proposal under discussion is the introduction of a dual preferential voting system aimed at reducing sectarian polarization and fostering political pluralism. The amendment would allow voters to select one candidate from their own sect and another from a different sect, a move Berri said would “enhance political diversity and broaden voter choices.”

On foreign relations, Berri expressed optimism over President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia, hoping it could unlock Saudi aid to boost Lebanon’s struggling economy.

“There are discussions about potential Saudi investment projects in Lebanon,” Berri noted, underscoring the Kingdom’s long-standing support for the country. He voiced hope that the Lebanese government would succeed in establishing direct ties with Riyadh, either through ministers or state institutions, to help stabilize Lebanon’s financial situation.