Jumblat doubtful US can shield Lebanon from further escalation
In an interview with L'Orient-Le Jour, former Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Jumblat said he would support the framework agreement if it guarantees the total liberation of Lebanese territory.
"I criticized the framework deal for omitting the 1949 Armistice Agreement, which is clearly cited in the Taif Accord and U.N. Resolution 1701," he noted. "However, if it leads to the full liberation of Lebanese territory, I have no problem with it."
He added that he was "the first to support the negotiation track from Baabda."
"I am not currently in contact with Hezbollah. However, the massive destruction wrought upon nearly 40 southern villages should compel Hezbollah to seek dialogue with the state in order to curb further damage and losses."
"Dialogue is possible and necessary," he told L'Orient-Le Jour, adding that he is skeptical about sparing Lebanon from regional instability.
"I do not see how Lebanon can be shielded from further escalation. While American pressure on Israel remains a possibility, I question its feasibility. Just last week, the Americans delivered new bombs to the Israelis, leaving the future largely in the hands of (U.S. President Donald) Trump and (Israeli PM Benjamin) Netanyahu."
Source: Naharnet
| Copyright © 2012 Naharnet.com. All Rights Reserved. | https://naharnet.com/stories/en/322684 |