Salam: Lebanon is ready to negotiate with Israel

In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam made waves by declaring that Lebanon is ready to enter direct talks with Israel, and that Beirut will ask Washington to help revive a diplomatic track.

Salam reiterated Lebanon’s long-standing offer to negotiate over the contested land borders and the areas Israel still controls. He expressed frustration that, despite showing readiness, Lebanon has not secured a meeting: “They ask for negotiations, and when we show readiness, they don’t agree to meet,” he said. “That’s something I will raise with the Americans.”

On the security front, Salam confirmed that a plan to disarm militias in southern Lebanon remains on course. According to him, the Lebanese Army has expanded its presence near the Israeli border, strengthening state control.

He also accused Israel of violating the cease‑fire deal by maintaining positions inside Lebanon that he described as

Of no security or military value.

Salam further emphasized his government’s efforts to tighten control over smuggling routes, especially along the border with Syria.

On the economic front, he revealed that Lebanon is working with France and Saudi Arabia to organize a donor conference to support reconstruction and economic recovery.

Salam closed his remarks on a hopeful note: he believes this is a moment of real change for Lebanon and insists that his country will not “miss the opportunity” this time.