Israel and Lebanon have agreed to enter negotiations to define their land border, establishing three working groups to address key issues. Israel will also release five Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture. Despite progress in diplomacy, military operations against Hezbollah continue, highlighting ongoing tensions. U.S. officials express hope for collaboration to resolve outstanding issues.
Israel and Lebanon have reached an agreement to initiate negotiations regarding the definition of their land border. This development follows a recent four-nation meeting with the United States and France held at the United Nations peacekeeping force headquarters in Naqoura, Lebanon. Three joint working groups will be established, focusing on key points such as Israeli occupation within Lebanon, the delineation of the de facto border marked by the Blue Line, disputed areas, and the situation of Lebanese citizens detained by Israel.
In a gesture of goodwill towards Lebanon’s new president, Joseph Aoun, Israel intends to release five Lebanese detainees. This decision was coordinated with the United States. Concurrently, Lebanon announced the return of four Lebanese nationals previously held by Israel, with reports indicating a fifth release imminent. According to Axios, one individual released is reportedly affiliated with Hezbollah, while Lebanese sources claim that 11 citizens remain under Israeli detention.
Historically, during Yair Lapid’s administration, negotiations took place concerning a maritime boundary between the two nations, resulting in an agreement facilitated by the U.S. However, an official land border has yet to be established. A truce effective since November has ended over a year of hostilities, particularly involving clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, which escalated significantly in October following an attack from Hezbollah aimed at supporting Hamas.
U.S. Deputy Presidential Special Envoy, Morgan Ortagus, emphasized the commitment of all parties to uphold the ceasefire agreement and quickly form the diplomat-led working groups tasked with addressing unresolved issues. Despite this diplomatic progress, Israel maintains its military operations against Hezbollah territories south of the Litani River, recent operations including a strike that resulted in the death of a Hezbollah operative involved in aerial defense strategies.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that their recent drone strike targeted Hassan Abbas Izzedine, a Hezbollah commander active in rebuilding the aerial defense unit’s infrastructure, posing significant threats to Israeli military aircraft. Additional airstrikes were executed targeting Hezbollah operatives and facilities recognized as potential threats to Israel’s security.
The recent negotiations between Israel and Lebanon mark a crucial step towards defining their land border amidst ongoing tensions. Israel’s commitment to release detainees and engage in talks reflects an effort for diplomatic resolution. Nonetheless, security concerns remain, as Israel continues to monitor and act against Hezbollah activities. The international community’s support in facilitating this dialogue underscores the complexity of the regional dynamics, and the commitment to the ceasefire presents an opportunity for both nations to stabilize their relationship.
Original Source: vinnews.com
