Sleiman Frangieh: “The President made a mistake

Beirut

Marada Movement leader Sleiman Frangieh said that entering negotiations without prior guarantees was a mistake, stating: “The President made a mistake, as did everyone who entered negotiations without prior guarantees.”

In an interview with LBCI on the program Jadal, Frangieh addressed a range of political and regional issues, foremost among them the U.S.–Iranian negotiations, Lebanese–Syrian relations, U.S. sanctions, the role of the Lebanese Army, as well as the issue of the resistance and relations with Israel.

Frangieh said he has always believed that an Iranian–American understanding is the solution, arguing that it could provide fertile ground for a political settlement. He said Lebanon has become a “bargaining chip” in American hands at the negotiating table with Iran.

Regarding the negotiations, he said direct talks took place “against everyone’s will,” adding that if they were going to produce results, there would not still be ongoing discussion about them. He expressed hope that they would achieve something, although he does not expect major results.

He also said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would not make concessions, given what he described as his “religious war” and the support he receives from a segment of the American public.

Frangieh: I am not betting on Israel honoring its commitments

Regarding the situation along the border and agreements with Israel, Frangieh said he was not convinced that Israel would honor the agreement, considering non-compliance to be “its usual behavior.” He also said he sees no genuine American pressure on Israel to withdraw, while warning of attempts to ignite a confrontation between Hezbollah and the Lebanese Army.

He added that, in his assessment, Israel had failed to comply with the ceasefire for a prolonged period, while Lebanon had fully adhered to the agreement.

Criticism of U.S. sanctions and position on President Aoun

Frangieh spoke about the U.S. sanctions imposed on him, revealing that approximately one month after they were imposed, he received a call from the “President’s Office,” during which he was told that the matter was “out of their hands” and that they had nothing to do with it.

Regarding President Joseph Aoun, Frangieh stressed that he does not question his patriotism, but said he questions the extent of Aoun’s trust in the Americans, arguing that they are allies of Israel and therefore cannot act as neutral arbiters.