Beirut: House Speaker Nabih Berri held discussions at the Second Presidency headquarters in Ain al-Tineh with US Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa and General Joseph Clearfield, Head of the Military Coordination Group for Lebanon (MCG4L), alongside a military delegation. The meeting was attended by Speaker Berri's Media Advisor, Ali Hamdan, and focused on the current situation in southern Lebanon, the identification of pilot areas, and mechanisms for verifying Israeli withdrawal and Lebanese Army deployment.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Speaker Berri emphasized ongoing issues, noting that Israel has continued its violations and attacks against Lebanon and the southern region since November 2024. He highlighted systematic destruction, including the demolition of villages, bulldozing of fields and agricultural areas, and the burning of forested zones, along with targeting heritage sites and cultural landmarks. Berri asserted that stability hinges on compelling Israel to cease hostilities and withdraw to international borders.

Ambassador Issa characterized the atmosphere of the meeting as positive. When queried about the negotiations and the timing of the next round, Ambassador Issa indicated that while the atmosphere remains positive, no specific date has been set for further discussions.

In a separate development, Speaker Berri signed into law the legislation passed during the recent general legislative session.