Israel and Lebanon have initiated border negotiations, supported by U.S. mediation. As a goodwill gesture, Israel will release five Lebanese nationals. Joint working groups will address crucial issues, including territorial disputes and Lebanese detainees held by Israel.
On Tuesday, the Prime Minister’s Office of Israel announced that negotiations have commenced with Lebanon regarding the border specifics. This initiative includes Israel’s decision to release five Lebanese nationals currently detained in the country. This development follows weeks of mediation facilitated by the Trump administration, as affirmed by a U.S. official in communication with Axios.
A quadrilateral meeting took place in Naqoura, Lebanon, involving representatives from Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the United States, France, and Lebanon. During this meeting, additional discussions concerning southern Lebanon and Lebanese nationals held by Israel were agreed upon, alongside the border talks.
The agreement includes the formation of three joint working groups which will focus on: the control points in southern Lebanon under Israel, the Blue Line boundary negotiations and displaced areas, and the issue of Lebanese detainees in Israel. This approach aims to ensure regional stability.
As a further gesture of goodwill towards the new Lebanese president and in coordination with the United States, Israel has planned the release of the five Lebanese detainees. However, specific details regarding their identities and possible affiliations with Hezbollah remain undisclosed.
The initiation of border negotiations between Israel and Lebanon signifies a significant diplomatic step, supported by U.S. mediation. Israel’s offer to release detainees underscores a goodwill gesture aimed at fostering dialogue. Establishing joint working groups will address critical issues such as regional stability and detainee status, potentially leading to resolutions of longstanding disputes.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
