Lebanon PM Calls for Israeli & US Withdrawal
Lebanon’s new PM Nawaf Salam delivered a striking address at the UN, demanding both Israel and the U.S. withdraw from Middle East operations. Citing international law and regional instability, Salam stated Lebanon would “not serve as a proxy battlefield.”
The speech received applause from the Global South bloc, but was condemned by Washington as “divisive.” Analysts see this as Lebanon’s pivot away from Western alliances, however, the French have doubled down on their support for Lebanon.
Israel has occupied land in southern Lebanon and is pressing the Knesset to create more settlements in southern Lebanon, which would also be illegal under International law.
Media Comparison:
- CNN: Describes the speech as “assertive” and diplomatically bold.
- France 24: Highlights historical grievances and links to Syrian conflict fallout.
- Al Jazeera: Frames it as a long-overdue stand against Western occupation.
Political Reactions:
- 🇱🇧 PM Salam (X) shared the full transcript with the caption: “Lebanon chooses sovereignty.”
- 🇺🇸 US State Dept said Salam’s remarks “misrepresent historical partnerships.”
- Popular Tweet with 1.2M views: “Finally, a leader who dares say it.”
Sentiment: 🟡 Mixed — assertive sovereignty vs international pushback.
🔗 CNN
