Condemnation no longer sufficient, Berri says after violent Wednesday strikes
Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri called for "national unity" after a long day of violent Israeli strikes on south Lebanon and on crossings along the Syria-Lebanon border.
"Statements of condemnation are no longer sufficient," Berri said, adding that only national unity can save Lebanon.
The strikes on Wednesday killed two people and wounded 19 others, including journalists.
A Lebanese army statement decried the Israeli targeting of "civilian buildings and homes" in a "blatant violation of Lebanon's sovereignty" and the ceasefire deal and said such attacks "hinder the army's efforts" to complete the disarmament plan.
President Joseph Aoun also strongly condemned the "dangerous escalation" that "targeted civilians" and "flagrantly violated International Humanitarian Law".
He called on the international community, especially France and the U.S. who helped broker the ceasefire deal reached in November 2024, to "shoulder their legal and political responsibilities" and take "clear and effective measures" to stop the Israeli violations, end the policy of impunity, and ensure the protection of civilians.
22 January 2026, 14:58
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"Statements of condemnation are no longer sufficient" you say. So what do you actually suggest, Mr Berri? Be clear. What do you mean by national unity? Shall we unite and wage war against Israel? What are your predictions for such a war? Or do you mean unite under the umbrella of the Lebanese Army, meaning that everyone must hand over their weapons to them? Which solution is the most viable?
