Beirut: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam expressed strong criticism towards those who have given Israel pretexts to attack Lebanon, stating that they have inflicted significant harm on the country by involving it in 'futile support wars.'
According to Anadolu Agency, Salam's comments were made in a post on the US social media platform X, following a speech by Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem. Qassem had argued that direct negotiations between the Lebanese state and Israel resulted only in 'gratuitous concessions.' He called on the government to engage in dialogue with the resistance, repair internal issues, and prioritize sovereignty.
Salam countered accusations aimed at the political leadership, stating that those who unilaterally dragged Lebanon into wars were the ones aiding Israel by providing justifications for its attacks. These actions, he claimed, allowed Israel to violate Lebanon's sovereignty, destroy cities and villages, and displace countless citizens.
He further criticized those who monopolize state authority and align Lebanon with external agendas, arguing that they should not claim to champion patriotism or sovereignty. Salam emphasized that true sovereignty could only be achieved through a unified state decision, with a single army exerting authority across all Lebanese territories.
The prime minister reiterated Lebanon's resolve to end Israel's occupation of its lands, secure the release of detainees, ensure the safe return of displaced residents, and rebuild affected areas. Since March, Israeli attacks have resulted in 4,333 deaths, 12,250 injuries, and the displacement of over 1 million people, as reported by Lebanese authorities.
Despite a US-brokered framework agreement signed by Beirut and Tel Aviv on June 26 and ongoing negotiations in Rome, the attacks have persisted, albeit at a slower pace. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has previously refuted claims of concessions to Israel, maintaining that negotiation is a diplomatic approach to secure Lebanon's rights and bring an end to the conflict.