Israel and Lebanon are set to commence negotiations regarding their land border following a four-nation meeting. Three joint working groups will address specific issues, including Israeli-occupied areas and detainees. Israel’s release of five Lebanese prisoners represents a goodwill gesture. The diplomatic progress occurs amid ongoing military tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.
Israel and Lebanon will begin negotiations to define their land border, following a meeting that included the U.S. and France at the United Nations peacekeeping headquarters in Naqoura, Lebanon. Three joint working groups will be formed to address significant issues including the five points of Israeli occupation inside Lebanon, the Blue Line as the de facto border, disputed points, and the status of Lebanese citizens detained by Israel.
As a goodwill gesture towards Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Israel has agreed to release five Lebanese detainees, coordinated with U.S. authorities. Concurrently, Lebanon has confirmed the receipt of four Lebanese hostages from Israel, with a fifth scheduled for release. Reports indicate that eleven Lebanese nationals remain in Israeli custody.
Israel and Lebanon previously negotiated a maritime boundary agreement, but no official land border exists. The ceasefire in Lebanon, effective since November, has ended prolonged hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which reignited with attacks on October 8, 2023.
U.S. Deputy Presidential Special Envoy Morgan Ortagus stated there is a commitment to uphold the ceasefire agreement while addressing outstanding issues through these diplomatic working groups. Despite diplomatic efforts, Israel has continued operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, indicating its readiness to counter any threats to its security.
Recent Israeli military actions included drone strikes targeting Hezbollah operatives and installations, particularly focusing on a commander in the aerial defense unit identified as Hassan Abbas Izzedine, who was deemed a crucial asset in Hezbollah’s military strategy. Israel emphasized its right to defend against security threats, continuing strikes against sites associated with Hezbollah operations and infrastructure.
The negotiations between Israel and Lebanon mark a significant step towards establishing a clearer land border, alongside actions aiming at improving bilateral relations, such as the release of detainees. Although diplomatic efforts are ongoing, the situation remains tense as Israel continues to conduct military operations against Hezbollah, highlighting ongoing security concerns amid the ceasefire. The commitment to these negotiations will be essential for future stability in the region.
Original Source: vinnews.com
