Le Drian: Negotiation is the only way out of the war in Lebanon, and Israel has failed to disarm Hezbollah

Jean-Yves Le Drian, the French special envoy to Beirut, stressed that the diplomatic path and negotiation represent the only way out of the ongoing military confrontation in Lebanon. Le Drian explained in his statements on Wednesday that the continuation of Israeli aggression has not achieved its stated goals, especially concerning the military capabilities of Lebanese factions.

The French envoy pointed out that Israel, despite the intensity of its military operations, has not succeeded in forcibly disarming Hezbollah. He considered it unrealistic to ask the Lebanese government to carry out this task in a few days while the country is subjected to continuous and violent shelling, emphasizing the need to search for comprehensive political solutions.

On the ground, the Lebanese arena has witnessed a dangerous escalation since the beginning of March, where continuous Israeli attacks have led to heavy human and material losses. According to official data issued by the Lebanese authorities, more than 900 martyrs have fallen, while more than one million citizens have been displaced from their homes fleeing the bombing areas.

In the context of responding to political moves, Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem affirmed the continuation of the resistance option in confronting the Israeli occupation. Qassem set four basic conditions for reaching a solution, starting with a comprehensive cessation of aggression and complete withdrawal from the occupied territories, leading to the issue of prisoners, reconstruction, and the return of displaced persons.

On the other hand, media sources revealed the existence of movements within the Israeli government aimed at reaching a political settlement. Former Minister for Strategic Affairs, Ron Dermer, stated that there has been tangible progress in the ongoing negotiations, describing the border dispute with Lebanon as a limited issue for which technical and political solutions can be found.

Press sources reported that Dermer, who is close to Benjamin Netanyahu, is actively participating in drafting ceasefire proposals in cooperation with the US administration. Dermer explained at a conference in New York that any future agreement must ensure that there is no return to the reality that existed before October 7, emphasizing the need for strict security guarantees.

The Israeli official concluded his statements by affirming that disarming Hezbollah remains a fundamental condition for implementing any long-term agreement. He indicated that Israel will not sacrifice the security of the residents of the northern areas, and that any border arrangements must prevent the party from re-establishing its military presence in areas adjacent to the border.

Israel has been unable to disarm Hezbollah, so the Lebanese government cannot be expected to do so in 3 days under bombardment.