Lebanon’s Speaker Berri Rules Out Participation in Israel-Iran War

Beirut Sends Clear Message of Non-Involvement

Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri has firmly ruled out any intention for Lebanon to participate in a potential war between Israel and Iran. In a bold and unequivocal statement reported by journalist Mario Nawfal, Berri said, “I am 200% sure Lebanon will not enter a war because it has no interest in doing so and would pay a heavy price.”

As tensions mount across the region—and speculation increases regarding a broader conflict—Berri’s remarks come as a rare moment of clarity from a nation often caught in the geopolitical crossfire.

“Iran Does Not Need Us”

Berri, a veteran political figure and close ally of Hezbollah, also took aim at suggestions that Iran might seek Lebanese assistance through Hezbollah. “Iran does not need us—it is Israel that needs support,” he added.

This statement appears to push back against fears that Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militant and political group based in southern Lebanon, would enter the conflict in solidarity with Tehran. While Hezbollah’s military capabilities are significant and its ties to Iran are well-documented, Lebanese state officials have often distanced the official government from the group’s decisions in times of regional crisis.

Hezbollah’s Role Under Scrutiny

Despite Berri’s reassurances, analysts and regional observers remain cautious. Hezbollah has historically acted independently of the Lebanese state in matters of war and peace, most notably during the 2006 war with Israel. The group’s vast military arsenal and close ideological alignment with Iran continue to fuel speculation that it may be drawn into action, especially if U.S. forces join Israel in a direct strike on Iran.

In recent weeks, Israeli officials have issued repeated warnings to Hezbollah, while reports of increased military readiness in southern Lebanon have further raised concerns.

Still, Speaker Berri’s comments reflect Lebanon’s political calculation that any war involving Iran and Israel could devastate the country’s already fragile economy and social fabric. Lebanon is still grappling with one of the worst financial crises in modern history, coupled with political paralysis and deteriorating infrastructure.

National Interest Above All

Berri’s remarks underscore a growing effort within Lebanon’s political leadership to prioritize national interest over regional alliances. The country has little appetite for another destructive conflict, especially given its current economic collapse, soaring inflation, and widespread emigration.

“Lebanon would pay a heavy price,” Berri reiterated—an acknowledgment of how quickly regional wars can spill over into Lebanon, often with catastrophic results.

A Cautious Wait-and-See Stance

As the Israel-Iran crisis continues to unfold, Lebanon appears committed, at least officially, to a stance of neutrality. Whether this position holds in the event of direct conflict remains to be seen.

For now, Berri’s statement is a clear signal: Lebanon wants no part in the war drums beating across the Middle East, even if others within its borders may have different agendas.