Nabih Berri confirms U.S. envoy's visit as 'Last diplomatic opportunity'

Nabih Berri, the speaker of the Lebanese Parliament and a close ally of Hezbollah, confirmed in an interview with Al-Arabiya on Sunday that U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein will visit Lebanon on Monday. He described the visit as the United States' "last opportunity" to reach a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict.

Berri made it clear that he opposes any amendments to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which established the ceasefire following the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war. "I have a plan that I am working on to save Lebanon, and there is American interest in achieving a ceasefire before the elections," he stated. He also rejected claims that Iran is obstructing this plan, emphasizing that Tehran is not involved in any roadblocks.

Berri also noted that the government, led by Prime Minister Najib Mikati, is facing "unprecedented challenges" but is fulfilling its duties as much as possible under the circumstances. He addressed the potential presidential candidacy of Lebanese Army commander Joseph Aoun, who is considered a favorite by the international community, explaining that such an election would require a constitutional amendment and the approval of at least 86 members of Parliament. Berri also denied any suggestion that the election of a new Lebanese president is contingent on a ceasefire being established.

In a broader regional context, Berri highlighted the importance of the Saudi-Iranian rapprochement that began in March 2023, expressing hope that it could bring peace and stability to the region.

However, as the head of the Shiite Amal movement and a figure with strong ties to Iran, Berri's statements should be viewed with caution, especially given the complex political dynamics at play in Lebanon and the wider Middle East.