Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri addressed the nation after the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah took effect, emphasizing the need for national unity and the swift election of a new president.

Berri expressed that Lebanon had successfully thwarted the impact of the Israeli aggression and had entered a new phase following the agreement.

"Lebanon has managed to thwart the repercussions of the Israeli aggression and embark on a new phase after the ceasefire agreement. The country has always desperately needed national unity, and it still does," Berri said.

In his speech, Berri appealed directly to all Lebanese citizens, regardless of their sect, political bloc, or parliamentary faction, describing the moment as historically critical for Lebanon's future.

"To all Lebanese, from every sect, political bloc, and parliamentary faction, I speak to you at this historic moment—the most perilous Lebanon has faced—threatening its resources, sovereignty, future, and every aspect of life," he stated.

"You opened your arms to embrace your fellow citizens who were unjustly forced from their homes. In doing so, you revealed Lebanon’s true face—one of unity and national solidarity. For this, you have my deepest gratitude and appreciation," he said, recognizing the collective efforts to protect and care for displaced individuals.

He went on to warn that this was not the time to celebrate the suffering of others but rather a moment for reflection and collective responsibility.

"This is not the time to dance on the graves of the fallen; it is a test for all Lebanese and, more so, for the Shiite community before any other," Berri stated. "It is a test of how we can save Lebanon, rebuild it, and breathe life back into its constitutional institutions." 

Berri also paid tribute to the Lebanese people’s resilience, particularly those in southern Lebanon.

The Speaker also addressed the displaced citizens, urging them to return to their homes with hope and determination.

"Return to your villages with hope and determination, armed with the resilience that the enemy’s machinery could not break," Berri stated, expressing confidence that with the support of Lebanon's regional allies, the country would be able to rebuild.

Turning to Lebanon's political future, Berri stressed the importance of electing a new president.

"This is a moment to shoulder responsibility," he said, calling for a president who could unite the country rather than deepen divisions and emphasizing the need for a leader who would act as a unifying force in these challenging times.

Berri concluded his speech by thanking the nations and organizations that have supported Lebanon during the conflict, including the diplomatic efforts that helped secure the ceasefire.

"I express my gratitude to the brotherly and friendly nations that rushed to assist Lebanon, the diplomats whose efforts helped achieve the ceasefire, the Lebanese Army, all security agencies, and UNIFIL," Berri said.