Protests Erupt in Beirut Rejecting Talks with Israeli Occupation
Demonstrators rally in Beirut against talks with Israel as political forces reject normalization and demand resistance amid ongoing Israeli attacks
Lebanon, PUREWILAYAH.COM — Protests erupted outside the Lebanese government headquarters in Beirut as demonstrators rejected the course of negotiations with the Israeli occupation amid ongoing political tensions and continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon.
According to Al-Mayadeen, participants gathered to oppose any direct engagement with Israel, warning that such talks would undermine Lebanon’s sovereignty and national policy.
The demonstrations reflect growing opposition to the government’s approach toward negotiations, with protesters insisting that talks cannot proceed while military attacks continue.
Political Forces Reject Direct Negotiations
The Syrian Social Nationalist Party issued a statement rejecting any proposal for direct negotiations with Israel, warning that such a move would amount to recognition of the occupation.
The party said the approach comes “in light of sidelining national elements of strength,” calling instead for adherence to the option of resistance.
“This path comes in light of sidelining national elements of strength,” the party said, urging a return to resistance as the primary strategy.
Opposition to Disarming the Resistance
Protests continued for two consecutive days outside the government headquarters, with demonstrators also opposing efforts to disarm the resistance while Israeli attacks persist despite a previously announced ceasefire.
Participants criticized the government’s approval of direct negotiations with Israel, noting that the occupation continues to hold Lebanese territory while carrying out attacks.
Planned Talks in Washington
A senior Lebanese official told Reuters that Lebanon intends to participate in a meeting expected next week in Washington with representatives from the United States and Israel to discuss a ceasefire declaration, although no official date has been confirmed.
Meanwhile, the office of Benjamin Netanyahu said the government had been instructed to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible.
According to the statement, the talks would focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing what Israel described as peaceful relations with Lebanon.
Lebanon Insists on Ceasefire First
Lebanon has yet to receive an official date from the United States to begin negotiations, with Beirut maintaining that a ceasefire must be established before any talks take place.
According to local reports, the Lebanese delegation is expected to include Ambassador Simon Karam and another senior diplomat, with officials awaiting confirmation from Washington.
Lebanese sources reiterated that establishing a ceasefire remains a prerequisite for entering any negotiation process.
Harrowing Israeli Strikes Across Lebanon
Earlier this week, Israeli forces carried out a series of airstrikes targeting multiple areas across Lebanon, including Beirut and its surroundings, southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and Mount Lebanon.
The attacks occurred despite earlier announcements of a broader ceasefire framework involving regional actors.
However, Israeli officials stated that Lebanon was not included in the ceasefire arrangement, coinciding with an escalation in strikes across the country.
The developments highlight growing internal opposition within Lebanon to normalization efforts, as tensions remain high and military confrontations continue on the ground. (PW)