U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff indicated that Lebanon and Syria might normalize relations with Israel due to regional political changes that diminish Iranian influence. Nonetheless, Lebanon’s current policies prohibit recognition of Israel. Continuing conflicts in the region and calls for Palestinian statehood complicate these potential developments.
During an American Jewish Committee event, U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff suggested that Lebanon and Syria could soon normalize relations with Israel. He highlighted political shifts in the region that might favor such developments, particularly the weakening of groups affiliated with Iran, such as Hezbollah and the Assad regime in Syria. Witkoff emphasized ongoing changes, stating, “Lebanon could actually mobilize and come into the Abraham Peace Accords, as could potentially Syria.”
However, Lebanon currently does not recognize Israel, and it is illegal for Lebanese citizens to visit. Entry into Lebanon is also denied for those holding an Israeli passport or stamp. Previous discussions about normalization have been contingent on actions from Saudi Arabia, which has indicated it might recognize Israel only if it sees movement towards an independent Palestinian state.
The Israeli military has intensified its operations against both Lebanon and Syria amid ongoing conflict with Hezbollah and its actions in Gaza. Since September 2024, over 4,000 Lebanese have been killed in hostilities, prompting Lebanese parliament member Wael Abou Faour to assert that the most Lebanon might pursue is a historical truce agreement, reminiscent of the 1949 armistice agreements.
Israel has stated it will maintain military positions in southern Lebanon to mitigate perceived threats, despite international calls for a complete withdrawal. Witkoff expressed optimism for Saudi Arabia’s potential recognition of Israel, which would deepen the already established Abraham Accords with other nations like Morocco and the UAE.
These geopolitical dynamics exist against the backdrop of ongoing violence in Gaza, where casualties have surpassed 61,707 Palestinians since the conflict’s onset in October 2023. Witkoff’s remarks illustrate the complexities of regional politics, the impact of U.S. foreign policy, and the intricacies of potential Arab-Israeli relations in the future.
The potential normalization of relations between Lebanon, Syria, and Israel has gained attention, particularly as U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff pointed to shifting political realities. Despite Lebanon’s current illegal stance on relations with Israel, strains on Iranian-affiliated groups may open discussions. However, the geopolitical landscape remains complicated by ongoing violence in Gaza and internal political dynamics within Lebanon and Syria, highlighting the challenges that any normalization efforts would face.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
