Lebanon seeks US guarantees to restore sovereignty, PM Salam says

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said Lebanon is seeking U.S. guarantees aimed at helping restore the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In remarks to Al Jazeera, Salam said the envisioned framework for negotiations would lead to ending the state of conflict between Lebanon and Israel.

He added that Lebanon would propose an end to Israeli attacks, the release of detainees, and a phased withdrawal process that would allow displaced residents to return and enable reconstruction efforts.

Salam stressed that if Israeli attacks continue, the first item on the negotiating agenda would be the consolidation of a ceasefire.

He also emphasized efforts to secure a firm ceasefire ahead of the next round of talks with Israel.

On regional relations, Salam said he would work with Syria’s leadership to address outstanding issues “in a spirit that serves the interests of both countries.”

He noted that his planned visit to Syria on Saturday aims to strengthen cooperation in areas including the economy, transport, and energy.

The Lebanese prime minister reiterated his government’s commitment to limiting weapons exclusively to the state.

He added that strengthening the state’s role as the sole negotiating authority does not mean Lebanon is unaffected by developments in other regional negotiations, including those in Islamabad.