Beirut: House Speaker Nabih Berri has accused Israel of transforming southern Lebanon into a "ballot box of blood" amid the upcoming elections, citing recent incidents of violence and destruction. According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Berri condemned the recent actions by Israel, which include the killing of civilians, including children and women, in locations such as Mayfadoun, Al-Ramadiyeh, and Maydoun. Additionally, he highlighted the destruction of Ghandour Hospital in Nabatieh Al-Fawqa and the targeting of a Ministry of Finance branch in Nabatieh city. Berri described these events as acts of state terrorism.

The Speaker criticized Israel for continuing its aggressive actions, arguing that it has ignored ceasefire agreements and international norms. He accused Israel of escalating violence to gain political advantage in the upcoming elections, turning southern Lebanon into a competitive ground for who can inflict the most harm. Berri emphasized the need for urgent international intervention to stop the hostilities in Lebanon's southern region, which he views as both an international and national responsibility.

Berri called on all parties to unite in support of southern Lebanon, framing the issue as a cause that concerns all Lebanese citizens. He stressed that defending the South is equivalent to defending the entire nation. In his concluding remarks, he expressed condolences for the victims and wished for a swift recovery for the injured.