Neutral by Necessity: Lebanon’s Gamble in a Region on Fire

Choosing Stability Over Illusion

By Daoud Rammal (originally in Arabic) | English version prepared by Akhbar al-Yawm

As tensions escalate between Israel and Iran across multiple fronts, Lebanon has adopted a firm policy of neutrality, seeking to distance itself from the regional confrontation.

In a rare display of political consensus, Lebanese authorities across party lines have voiced a shared commitment to prevent the country from becoming entangled in external conflicts. Officials cite Lebanon’s severe economic and institutional crises as key reasons for avoiding any further destabilization.

Government sources say that over the past several days, Lebanon has intensified diplomatic efforts with regional and international actors, emphasizing that the country must not be drawn into the current hostilities or used as a launchpad for retaliatory actions.

So far, this position has helped consolidate an internal front favoring disengagement, reinforcing a policy of "practical neutrality" amid broader regional instability.

While the Israel-Iran confrontation remains volatile, the risk of a full-scale war appears contained. The United States has not signaled intent to push for regime change in Iran and continues to advocate for a return to nuclear negotiations. Israel, facing mounting internal challenges and international criticism, is seen as limited in its capacity to drive a new regional order.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has taken an uncharacteristically firm stance by openly condemning Israel’s military actions against Iran, a move seen as reflecting Riyadh’s growing emphasis on stability and economic development over regional escalation.

Lebanon must resist illusions of gaining from regional conflicts or shifting alliances. Experience shows that force brings instability, not peace. The country, and the region, needs a rational approach that prioritizes people’s interests over external power struggles and avoids becoming a battleground for others.