Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri stated that he refuses to convene a dialogue or consultation session that does not include all political factions, considering this the only way to break the deadlock in the presidential election.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, Berri emphasized his desire for an inclusive dialogue to address the exceptional circumstances Lebanon is facing, clarifying that his call for consultations is not intended to marginalize or isolate any group.

"We have had enough division and fragmentation. Our only option is consultation or dialogue, which can lead to the election of a president within ten days, thereby restoring the functionality of constitutional institutions. Lebanon must be fully prepared to face challenges, especially as the region anticipates new political arrangements that require a unified vision to prevent solutions being made at our expense," he said.

Berri underscored the urgent need to elect a president who would lead the Lebanese delegation in negotiations if a new political map for the Middle East were to be drawn, questioning the harm in engaging in consultations amid the current unprecedented circumstances.

"Who said that consultation breaches the constitution, especially since it paves the way for electing a president and ending the presidential void?" he asked, assuring that there are no preconditions for the necessary consultations.

"If we agree on a consensus candidate, he will receive our full support and endorsement. If not, we proceed to Parliament with a list of candidates, allowing MPs to elect the president from among them in consecutive parliamentary sessions with multiple voting rounds, provided that a two-thirds majority of the general assembly members is ensured."