Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri met at the second presidential office in Ain al-Tineh with caretaker Minister of Labor Mustafa Bayram who briefed the Speaker on Lebanon's formal complaint to the International Labour Organization (ILO) regarding Israel’s aggression.
The complaint details the widespread damage caused by Israeli airstrikes on communication systems, particularly those affecting workers across Lebanon. The meeting also included discussions on Lebanon’s diplomatic efforts and the ongoing political developments.
“I’ve met with Speaker Berri and initially briefed him on the complaint I submitted in Geneva to the ILO concerning the destruction of pager and wireless devices that have affected thousands of Lebanese citizens, particularly workers. These are criminal acts without precedent,” Bayram stated.
The Labor Minister also outlined the diplomatic efforts Lebanon has undertaken, including meetings with over 25 ambassadors and diplomats and a press conference with global news agencies, where Lebanon reaffirmed its stance of respecting international law. However, Bayram added that Israel's failure to abide by international resolutions has left the Lebanese people with no choice but to resist Israeli occupation.
Addressing the situation surrounding the cessation of Israeli aggression, Bayram noted, “The President shared details of a potential agreement. He is hopeful but cautious, emphasizing that things will become clearer as events unfold. Lebanon has remained firm in asserting its rights and rejecting any efforts to diminish its sovereignty or resistance. We are committed to international law, but Israel, which has consistently violated these laws, remains an exception to every international resolution.”
Bayram also referred to the tragic incident on September 27 when Lebanon’s efforts to reach a ceasefire were undermined by an Israeli attack that took place within the United Nations.
Bayram continued, “Since then, Israel has waged an aggressive expansion of its attacks, but through unity and steadfastness, Lebanon has prevented Israel from achieving its military objectives. The pain of human loss and destruction remains, but these are war crimes, not victories for the aggressor.”
Further discussing Lebanon’s diplomacy, Bayram mentioned his meeting with Iranian official Ali Larijani, who expressed strong support for Lebanon's position and reaffirmed Iran’s backing of Lebanon’s government, resistance, and people.
The statement also highlighted the upcoming visit of U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein and the ongoing international attention on the situation.
In response to a question about the U.S.-drafted proposals on ceasefire and conflict resolution, Bayram explained that while Lebanon initially reviewed the terms, certain points were deemed to infringe on Lebanese sovereignty.
“The Lebanese government, led by Prime Minister Mikati, has made it clear that we are committed to implementing Resolution 1701. Any new mechanisms that may create confusion or violate our sovereignty will be rejected. We will not allow Israel to have free movement within Lebanon’s borders,” Bayram stressed.
Bayram further clarified the role of Hezbollah in the conflict, noting, “Hezbollah’s role is to counter aggression and protect Lebanon’s sovereignty, not to engage in negotiations. The primary responsibility for diplomacy lies with the Lebanese state.”
Bayram further recalled the 2006 war, during which Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire under Resolution 1701, but Israel violated the truce with over 39,000 violations since.
"If Israel respects 1701, we will respond accordingly. But if they continue to violate it, Hezbollah, as a resistance force, will defend Lebanon," he added.
Bayram also condemned Israel’s failure to honor international agreements and the atrocities it continues to commit, such as its use of cluster bombs.
“Israel’s disregard for international law is evident. They have shown no respect for agreements, and we see that every time Lebanon makes a concession, Israel demands more.”
On the issue of a monitoring committee for the ceasefire, Bayram emphasized that Speaker Berri was leading the negotiations with wisdom and caution, ensuring that Lebanon’s sovereignty is respected.
“The Parliament Speaker is dedicated to ensuring a genuine end to the aggression and is prepared to confront any Israeli violations," Bayram stated.
In a separate meeting, Minister of Displaced Persons, Issam Sharafeddine, presented Speaker Berri with a proposal addressing the urgent financial needs of displaced Lebanese citizens and depositors.
Sharafeddine noted, “The Lebanese people, particularly displaced depositors, are in dire need of humanitarian and financial support in these challenging times. We are requesting the government’s assistance in raising the withdrawal limits for depositors, as well as addressing the medical and educational needs of the most vulnerable.”
Sharafeddine concluded by praising Speaker Berri for his attention to the issue, adding, “We are also presenting these proposals to Prime Minister Mikati to bring them to the Cabinet for further consideration.”
TWEET YOUR COMMENT