US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff indicated that Lebanon and Syria could potentially normalize relations with Israel, highlighting shifts in regional dynamics due to declining Iranian influence. However, Lebanon’s legal framework and historical positions complicate this process. Concurrently, the influence of Saudi Arabia and the Palestinian issue remains significant in any prospective agreements. The situation is compounded by the humanitarian impact of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and surrounding regions.
Steve Witkoff, the United States envoy to the Middle East, suggested that Lebanon and Syria could potentially normalize relations with Israel. During an event organized by the American Jewish Committee, he mentioned that political changes in the region might lead to improvements in ties, particularly noting the decline of Iranian influence and Hezbollah’s weakened position. Witkoff expressed optimism about Lebanon and Syria potentially joining the Abraham Peace Accords amidst these shifting dynamics.
Witkoff acknowledged the deteriorating status of the Iranian presence in the region, indicating significant transformations occurring in Lebanon and Syria. His comments echoed sentiments previously voiced by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, who suggested Lebanon might consider diplomatic relations with Israel, contingent upon actions from Saudi Arabia. However, it is critical to note that Lebanon has not recognized Israel, and travel between the two countries remains illegal, underscoring the complexities involved in any normalization efforts.
Palestinian writer Yasser Zaatreh criticized Witkoff’s statements, emphasizing the tragedies inflicted by Israel’s military actions in Lebanon and Syria, describing the claims as indicative of a misguided sense of authority from US leadership. The ongoing conflict, particularly Israel’s military campaigns in Gaza, has severely affected both nations over the last year and a half, resulting in significant casualties and humanitarian crises.
In Lebanon, the recent conflict has seen casualties exceeding 4,000, alongside a prolonged Israeli presence in southern regions despite ceasefire agreements. Concurrently, Israel has aggressively targeted alleged Hezbollah and Iranian sites within Syria, further exacerbating regional tensions. Syrian officials have expressed a desire for Israel’s withdrawal, but prevailing instability limits their capacity for effective military responses.
Lebanese parliament member Wael Abou Faour commented on the potential for a truce akin to the historical 1949 armistice, asserting Lebanon’s need for national unity and emphasizing the state’s authority over military and foreign relations amid external pressures. He remarked on the challenge of ensuring state sovereignty against foreign interference and the essential need for unity to confront these external dynamics.
In contrasting regional dynamics, Witkoff also highlighted the possibility of Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords. However, Riyadh has consistently stated that it would not establish relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognized, a stance that has grown more pronounced in light of current events in Gaza. President Trump continues to advocate for such relations, despite facing criticism for his controversial remarks regarding the Gaza Strip.
The discussion surrounding the normalization of relations between Lebanon, Syria, and Israel reflects significant shifts in Middle Eastern politics, particularly in light of the deteriorating influence of Iran in the region. However, entrenched legal prohibitions and historical animosities complicate the process significantly. Political leaders emphasize the need for national unity in Lebanon, while external pressures continue to challenge the sovereignty of both Lebanon and Syria. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s role is pivotal in any potential normalization efforts, conditional upon resolving the Palestinian statehood issue. The situation remains fluid, reflecting ongoing tensions and the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
