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PM Salam tells CNN Lebanon did not seek war, aims to halt escalation

19-03-2026 | 12:33

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PM Salam tells CNN Lebanon did not seek war, aims to halt escalation

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam told CNN that Lebanon has become a battleground in the conflict between Israel and Iran, with all Lebanese civilians suffering as a result.

He said the war was imposed on Lebanon and that the country did not seek it, making the immediate priority finding a way to stop the fighting.

Salam emphasized the importance of U.S. involvement, describing the United States as a strategic partner for Lebanon and highlighting President Donald Trump as capable of playing a key role in ending the conflict.

Lebanon is ready to enter immediate negotiations with Israel, he said, and believes the conflict can only be resolved through dialogue.

The prime minister also stressed that Lebanon will not accept any buffer zones, security areas, or measures that compromise its sovereignty. Any treaty, agreement, or arrangement must guarantee the full restoration of Lebanon’s control over its territory.

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