Israel has agreed to talks with Lebanon to demarcate their border and will release five Lebanese detainees as a diplomatic gesture. This follows ongoing tensions after a ceasefire ending a year of conflict, particularly against Hezbollah, which has seen significant military losses due to Israeli operations.
On Tuesday, Israel announced its agreement to engage in negotiations to delineate its border with Lebanon, in addition to the decision to release five Lebanese detainees held by the Israeli military. This move is articulated as a “gesture to the Lebanese president” by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office.
Israel is coordinating with Lebanon, the United States, and France to form working groups tasked with discussing the demarcation line between the two nations. Despite Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon under a ceasefire agreement established in November, Israeli troops maintain five strategic positions in the region and have conducted airstrikes purportedly targeting Hezbollah activities.
This ceasefire brought to an end a year-long conflict between the Israeli military and Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Lebanese terrorist organization, which unfolded concurrently with the Gaza war. The hostilities reached their peak during a significant air and ground operation by Israel in southern Lebanon, severely diminishing Hezbollah’s military capabilities, including the loss of numerous key command figures due to Israeli strikes.
The recent diplomatic development between Israel and Lebanon, focusing on the border demarcation and the release of detainees, reflects a significant step towards easing regional tensions. The engagements involve crucial discussions among Israel, Lebanon, the US, and France, aiming to stabilize the area following prolonged conflict and upheaval.
Original Source: www.algemeiner.com
