• It is no longer feasible to backtrack on what has already begun, so there is no point in re-establishing communication, as it would be interpreted as “submission and acceptance” of what is currently being implemented. Their suspicions were reinforced by what was said in the recent speech, which, despite appearing disjointed and confused in form, clearly signaled plans that have been in preparation for some time, involving secret discussions held behind closed doors. 

• As further evidence, Aoun’s speech focused more on “internal antagonism and conflict” with his opponents rather than presenting or defending a unified national approach. 

• Aoun appeared to rely on the endorsement of U.S. President Trump, referring to him as a friend.

• This perceived bias has weakened the possibility of reconciliation with Speaker Nabih Berri, who had previously made significant efforts to build understanding with the presidency. Those efforts culminated in his last visit to the Baabda Palace, where he delivered a notable remark: “I am reassured as long as the president is in the palace.” 

It is no secret that Aoun’s recent speech has placed Speaker Nabih Berri in an uncomfortable position, prompting him to object to the president’s approach by rejecting direct negotiations, which he argues would undermine the ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024. He has instructed movement leaders to launch a media campaign opposing this direction, aligning with Hezbollah supporters who took to the streets last week against the negotiations and raising concerns within the leaders and authority.

Accordingly, Hezbollah confirms that although it had previously declared that the negotiations and their possible outcomes do not concern it at all, and that it is not prepared to respond to any of their premises or results, it has reiterated that “this process will not be allowed to proceed unchallenged,” and it now genuinely fears an imminent “inevitable political confrontation in the coming phase.”