Major Lebanese Christian Movement Warns of Consequences of "Humiliation Agreement" with Israel
The Free Patriotic Movement warns the framework lacks guarantees for Israeli withdrawal as public anger spills into the streets of Beirut after the deal is signed.
Lebanon, PUREWILAYAH.COM - The Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) of Lebanon warned that the recently signed framework agreement with the Israeli regime paves the way for the continued occupation of Lebanese territory.
In a statement, the movement, headed by former Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil, said the framework does not explicitly require Israel to withdraw from occupied Lebanese territory and sets no clear timetable for such a withdrawal.
The largest Christian political movement in Lebanon added that the agreement leaves Israel with room to maneuver and prolong its occupation while ignoring the ceasefire agreement, which it described as one of the essential foundations of any lasting solution.
The movement also warned that any agreement lacking broad national support and containing provisions capable of fueling division and internal discord would be extremely dangerous.
Protests Erupt in Beirut After Framework Agreement Is Signed
Public anger erupted across Beirut after the Lebanese government signed the U.S.-brokered framework agreement with Israel.
Crowds gathered outside the Grand Serail, the seat of the Lebanese government, after news of the signing spread across the capital. Protesters surrounded the government headquarters, condemning the agreement and rejecting its provisions.
Under the framework, Lebanon would fully disarm Hezbollah and all other non-state armed groups in exchange for a gradual, “verified” Israeli withdrawal through so-called pilot zones under U.S. supervision. Israel, meanwhile, undertakes no binding commitment beyond a general pledge to withdraw once it determines that the disarmament process has been completed according to its own timetable and verification.
Footage later showed the Lebanese Army deploying against demonstrators. Local reports said troops fired tear gas at protesters on the road leading to Beirut International Airport.
The deployment drew criticism as the Lebanese Army, which has remained unable to halt the Israeli occupation, was seen confronting Lebanese citizens protesting the occupation and the framework agreement. (PW)