Nabih Berri: The Army’s Mission Is to Defend Lebanon and Its People
Nabih Berri, on the first anniversary of Israel’s attack on southern Lebanon and the entire country, condemned Israeli military and political officials for using internationally banned weapons in what he described as some of the moast horrific forms of military and political terrorism. He noted that dozens of villages were reduced to scorched earth in this assault. Berri called Lebanon’s resistance the guarantor of freedom and dignity, expressing gratitude to people from all southern villages, Beqaa, Dahieh, Beirut, and northern regions who demonstrated national unity through their solidarity.
Berri emphasized that Lebanon has adhered to the ceasefire agreement as it took effect on November 27 last year. Simultaneously occurring, Israel has repeatedly violated this agreement by failing to withdraw from occupied territories, releasing Lebanese prisoners, or allowing the Lebanese army to deploy south of the Litani River.
The Speaker firmly rejected recent comments by the U.S. special envoy about Lebanon’s government,army,and resistance forces. He stressed that “the Lebanese army will never serve as a guard for Israel,” underscoring its sacred mission to defend Lebanon and its people.
Berri further highlighted the urgent need for implementing government promises to compensate families whose homes were damaged or destroyed. Referring to recent Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon, he said these assaults should awaken every Lebanese citizen’s conscience-to understand that Israel’s antagonistic intentions do not target any specific group or sect but all of Lebanon equally. Confronting these assaults is a collective national responsibility.
