The individual who served as prime minister of Lebanon during the recent Israeli invasion in 2006 is focusing his attention on both Israel and Hezbollah.
Speaking to me in the mountains overlooking Beirut, Fouad Siniora asserts that the Israeli military is causing excessive civilian casualties in Gaza as well as in Lebanon.
He notes that the assault on peacekeeping troops in southern Lebanon exemplifies what he characterizes as wartime atrocities.
He remarked: “This is a profoundly troubling action on Israel’s part, and I hope it garners the attention of the entire world.”
Yet, his ire is also directed toward Hezbollah, who he claims have taken control of the nation and its governance.
He expresses optimism about the potential to diminish Hezbollah’s power, citing their currently weakened position.
Read more: Live updates from the Middle East conflict
He emphasizes that Lebanon must “transform a challenge into an opportunity.”
“You cannot govern the country when dual states exist… the state of Hezbollah… and the legitimate state which is losing its capacity,” he stated.
Mr. Siniora further stressed the necessity for Iran to refrain from meddling in Lebanese matters.
He declared: “Lebanon simply cannot afford for Iran to continue interfering, not only directly but also through its proxies.”
Beirut, captured from the location where Fouad Siniora and Mark Austin conversed
He conveyed his belief that Lebanon is already a compromised state and could face total collapse unless a ceasefire is achieved alongside the comprehensive execution of the UN resolution reinstated in 2006.
Failing that, he foresees a grim future for Lebanon.
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On Saturday, Israel announced that numerous rockets were launched from Lebanon into northern Israel while the nation observed Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Meanwhile, the Israeli armed forces instructed residents of 22 villages in southern Lebanon to evacuate without delay, and a UN peacekeeper was shot in Lebanon, according to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the area.
The unidentified peacekeeper is the fifth to sustain injuries within a span of three days.
“Conflict is akin to a virus; if it’s not addressed swiftly, it proliferates,” states Mr. Siniora.
However, gazing from his balcony over Beirut, the plumes of smoke from the detonations continue to ascend into the azure sky, indicating that a ceasefire remains elusive.
