JOINT COMMUNIQUÉ — Office of Regional Asset Continuity, Beirut and Washington
Following a review of the protective arrangements currently in place for Bassam al-Hassan, both governments have confirmed that the peace process will now proceed through a franchise agreement. Negotiating sessions will take place in the rear booths of a fast food location in Hamra, which has been designated a neutral venue on the basis of seating capacity and parking availability.
Under the terms of the memorandum, delegations will meet on alternating Tuesdays. The Lebanese side will supply the sauce. The American side will supply the branding guidelines, which have been reviewed and found to be consistent with existing treaty language. A third-party ice machine has been retained as an observer.
Mr. al-Hassan remains in protective custody in accordance with established hospitality protocols. He has been provided with a meal combination and a laminated copy of the seating chart. He is not a party to the negotiations, which are described in official materials as a preliminary consultation regarding combo pricing. Information exchanged under the arrangement has been classified as a value meal.
Questions regarding the arrangement should be directed to the joint press office, which has been briefed and is currently reviewing its drive-through hours.