Berri Says Ceasefire Discussions Advancing, Technical Details Pending

Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri confirmed that discussions between Lebanese officials and U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein regarding a ceasefire proposal between Lebanon and Israel are progressing positively, noting, however, that there are still a few remaining details to be finalized.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper following a two-hour meeting with Hochstein, Berri described the situation as "good”, saying that the next steps in the process hinge on addressing "some technical details" before proceeding to the next phase of the negotiations. This would include Hochstein's planned trip to Israel, from which the Lebanese side hopes to receive further updates.

"The details are being worked on by representatives from both sides, and once they are resolved, Hochstein will head to Israel. We are awaiting what he will bring back from there," Berri stated, reiterating that the overall situation remains favorable.

Regarding the issue of guarantees from Israel, Berri emphasized that these assurances lie with the Americans, with the U.S. responsible for ensuring Israel's compliance with the terms of the proposed ceasefire.

When asked whether the draft being discussed had been coordinated with Israeli officials, Berri referred to Hochstein's assertion that he had indeed coordinated with Israel on the matter. However, Berri was quick to add a word of caution, remarking that “this is not the first time the Israelis have denied their commitments."