Lebanese PM Rejects Any Continued Israeli Presence on Lebanese Territory

DID Press: Nawaf Salam has reaffirmed Lebanon’s demand for a full Israeli withdrawal from occupied areas, stressing that Beirut will not accept Israeli forces remaining in “even two occupied points” on Lebanese soil.

Speaking about ongoing discussions in Washington, Salam said Lebanon chose the negotiation track because it represents “the least costly option” for the country.

The Lebanese prime minister emphasized that Beirut rejects any arrangement allowing Israeli forces to remain in occupied locations, adding that Lebanon seeks the release of detainees and insists on a complete withdrawal.

“We will not agree to Israel remaining in five occupied points, nor even in two points,” Salam said, according to his remarks. “We know that our position is to demand a full Israeli withdrawal.”

He noted that Israel is expected to present its own security proposals, while Lebanon will only consider proposals it deems acceptable.

Salam added that no party can predict the outcome of the negotiations in advance, but reiterated that Lebanon’s objective remains the restoration of full sovereignty over its territory and the withdrawal of all Israeli forces from occupied areas.

The remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts involving the United States and regional stakeholders aimed at addressing security tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border.