Lebanon’s PM Salam: War imposed on Lebanon, priority is reconstruction and Israeli withdrawal

Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said Lebanon is facing a war that was imposed on it and not of its choosing, stressing that the country’s immediate priority is reconstruction and securing a full Israeli withdrawal.

Speaking at a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, Salam said lasting stability cannot be achieved without Israel’s withdrawal, the return of prisoners, and the return of displaced residents to their villages.

He added that preparations are underway for an international conference aimed at reconstruction and recovery, describing it as a key priority in the current phase.

Salam said Lebanon does not seek confrontation with Hezbollah, but stressed that it will not allow intimidation.

He also said Lebanon needs 500 million euros to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

On negotiations with Israel, Salam described the talks as difficult and said they would require effective support from international partners.

He added that Lebanon will head to Washington with a clear objective: securing the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.