Israel announced it will release five Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture to Lebanon’s new president, coordinated with U.S. efforts. This follows a meeting aimed at establishing joint groups to address regional stability and border disputes. While a ceasefire holds, Israel continues air strikes against Hezbollah operations in Lebanon.
On Tuesday, Israel announced its decision to release five Lebanese detainees, a gesture to acknowledge Lebanon’s new president. This arrangement was coordinated with the United States, as stated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. The announcement followed a pivotal meeting in Naqoura, which included U.S., French, and Lebanese representatives alongside Israeli military officials.
The meeting established three joint working groups intended to stabilize the region. The primary focus areas are the disputed five points in southern Lebanon, the discussions surrounding the Blue Line—the UN-patrolled border since 2000—and matters related to Lebanese prisoners detained in Israel.
As reported by Axios, the U.S. confirmed that this release of Lebanese citizens captured during the previous conflict is part of broader negotiations to resolve land border disputes between Israel and Lebanon. These detainees include a mix of civilians and soldiers, according to Morgan Ortagus, the U.S. deputy special envoy for the Middle East.
The recent U.S.-French mediated truce on November 27 aimed to halt hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel after over a year of clashes. While the truce remains effective, Israel has conducted air strikes in Lebanon to prevent Hezbollah from rearming, including targeting a member with an airstrike last Saturday.
The ceasefire agreement encompasses conditions requiring Hezbollah’s withdrawal north of the Litani River and the dismantling of its military presence in southern regions. Israel plans to maintain its military presence at five strategic locations in Lebanon, despite initially aiming for complete withdrawal by February 18, after missing a January deadline.
Israel’s decision to release five Lebanese detainees marks a significant step in diplomatic relations, emphasizing cooperation facilitated by the U.S. and France. Establishing joint working groups aims to address ongoing disputes and stabilize the region. The background of the recent ceasefire and continued military actions underscores the complexity of Israel-Lebanon relations, particularly concerning Hezbollah’s activities.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
