Lebanon Will Not Sign Any Deal Without Full Israeli Withdrawal, Declares PM Salam

The Prime Minister reaffirmed this firm stance on Thursday, April 23, 2026, ahead of crucial talks scheduled in Washington. According to a report by Al Jazeera, Salam made these remarks during an interview with The Washington Post following a high-stakes meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.

Prime Minister Salam emphasized that Lebanon would not accept any proposal for a "buffer zone" while Israeli forces remain present on their soil. He asserted that no arrangement would be tolerated that prevents displaced Lebanese citizens from returning to their homes or hinders the reconstruction of destroyed villages and towns. He stressed that Lebanon will not compromise on its national sovereignty or the rights of its citizens, warning that their willingness to negotiate should not be misinterpreted as a sign of weakness or flexibility on core demands.

Addressing the demands from Israel and Western nations regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah, Salam described it as a long-term political and strategic process that cannot be achieved overnight. He further noted that Lebanon is engaging in these talks with the belief that the United States is the only party capable of exerting effective influence over Israel. Acknowledging Washington's initial role in the ceasefire process, he expressed hope that the U.S. would continue to pressure Israel to comply with international law. The Prime Minister concluded by stating that while the final outcome of the negotiations remains uncertain, Lebanon’s objectives and demands remain crystal clear, reflecting a diplomatic resolve often seen in regional security frameworks involving NATO-member states and their partners.