Lebanese parliament speaker calls for national unity following Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has labelled the war with Israel as “the most dangerous historical phase” Lebanon has ever faced, following the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.

In a statement, Berri said, "We are closing a historic chapter that posed the greatest threat to Lebanon—its people, history, and resources," Caliber.Az reports per Lebanese media.

The Speaker called on Lebanon’s political factions to prioritize unity in these challenging times.

"This is not the time to celebrate over bloodshed, but to preserve a united Lebanon capable of emerging stronger from this ordeal. This moment is a test for all Lebanese, especially the Shia community, to protect Lebanon from future threats," he emphasized.

Berri also stressed the urgent need for the restoration of Lebanon's constitutional institutions, particularly urging the election of a president who would work to unite the nation rather than deepen divisions.

He concluded by expressing his gratitude to all parties involved in securing the ceasefire, a crucial step towards peace and stability.

To recap, a ceasefire between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah came into effect on Wednesday, following an agreement brokered by the United States and France—marking a rare diplomatic success in a region devastated by two wars over the past year.

Lebanon's army, which is responsible for helping to enforce the ceasefire, announced preparations to deploy forces to the south of the country. The military also advised residents of border villages to delay their return home until the Israeli military, which has fought Hezbollah in the past and advanced approximately 6 km into Lebanon, withdraws.

While the ceasefire largely held on November 27 morning, Israel reported spotting Hezbollah operatives near the border and fired shots to prevent them from advancing further.

The agreement, which seeks to end the ongoing conflict along the Israeli-Lebanese border—where thousands of lives have been lost since hostilities began with the Gaza war last year—represents a significant diplomatic achievement for the United States in the final stages of President Joe Biden's administration.

By Aghakazim Guliyev