Lebanon denies that current border talks with Israel could lead to normalization. Discussions are part of UN Resolution 1701. Concerns focus on security, territorial disputes, and the recent release of detainees. Israeli officials express their desire for normalization, but both sides maintain strong positions regarding border claims and security interests.
Lebanon has officially denied Israeli assertions that border discussions could pave the way for normalization between the two nations. Sources from President Joseph Aoun’s office clarified that these discussions, taking place in Naqoura, are strictly linked to the implementation of UN Resolution 1701. They specifically stated that there are no ongoing direct negotiations with Israel.
The source further asserted, “Any claims that these committees serve as a prelude to normalization are false.” The focus of the committees includes resolving border disputes, addressing ongoing issues from the 2006 conflict, the five areas still occupied by Israel, and the matter of Lebanese prisoners held by Israel.
Earlier in the day, an Israeli senior official indicated that Israel aims to normalize relations with Lebanon, attributing this ambition to the Prime Minister’s transformative policies in the region and their cooperation with the U.S. He mentioned the possibility of continued dialogue regarding mutual territorial claims.
On Tuesday, Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office announced a meeting involving officials from Israel, the United States, France, and Lebanon in Naqoura. The PMO noted that Israel agreed to release five Lebanese detainees as a conciliatory gesture toward Lebanon’s new president, aiming to stabilize the region through the establishment of three working groups focused on border control and detaining issues.
The PMO revealed that the next discussions would include diplomatic representatives. According to an Israeli official, relocating talks into a diplomatic framework is seen as a first step toward potential recognition of Israel by Lebanon. However, he made it clear that while Lebanon has its claims, so does Israel, and any agreement must prioritize Israel’s national security interests.
Concerns about the talks were voiced by David Azoulay, head of the Metula Regional Council, who cautioned against agreements that could jeopardize security in northern Israel. He emphasized the importance of not establishing any agreements that might facilitate the presence of terrorist groups in Lebanon, advocating for substantial actions rather than mere promises in negotiations.
Moshe Davidovich, head of the Mateh Asher Regional Council, reiterated the need for Israel to establish a security buffer and maintain a military presence along its borders despite any agreements with Lebanon or the United States.
Anonymous sources from Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Akhbar stated that the detainee release should not be misconstrued as goodwill from Israel and that negotiations had been ongoing well before this recent development. They highlighted that President Aoun requested U.S. intervention for the release of prisoners as part of the diplomatic maneuvering following Lebanon’s extension of the ceasefire.
Lebanon’s denial of normalization talks with Israel highlights the continued complexities in their diplomatic relations. While discussions regarding border issues are being held under the framework of UN Resolution 1701, both nations assert territorial claims and security interests. Tensions remain, particularly regarding the release of Lebanese detainees and the involvement of Hezbollah, which complicates any prospect for peaceful normalization. The future of these talks hinges on addressing security concerns and ensuring that agreements do not compromise the safety of northern Israel’s residents.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
