The U.S. has given Lebanon an ultimatum to negotiate with Israel via civilian committees by the end of the month, warning of potential military consequences if they refuse. Washington seeks to broaden discussions to include key issues like prisoner release and border disputes, but Lebanon’s leadership faces domestic opposition to any normalization efforts. Moderate voices within Lebanon express a longing for peace, but strong anti-Israel sentiments prevail.
The United States has reportedly issued Lebanon an ultimatum to form civilian committees for negotiations with Israel by the end of this month. Morgan Ortagus, the Deputy U.S. envoy to the Middle East, conveyed this message to President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, emphasizing potential repercussions should Lebanon decline the proposal, including the withdrawal of Washington from the oversight committee.
Lebanon has been given a strict deadline deemed non-negotiable, as the U.S. seeks to broaden discussions beyond military issues. American requests center around establishing diplomatic working groups that address three key concerns: the release of Lebanese prisoners, Israeli withdrawal from disputed areas along the Blue Line, and the resolution of remaining border disputes.
Despite the pressure, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raji reaffirmed Lebanon’s firm stance against normalizing relations with Israel. There exists a challenging dilemma for the Lebanese government, balancing fears of increased Israeli aggression against internal resistance to any perceived normalization.
Strong anti-normalization sentiments are prevalent on social media platforms, especially among users linked to Hezbollah and pro-Iran factions. Many view any negotiation with Israel as betrayal, emphasizing a continued resistance against perceived Israeli aggression as integral to Lebanese identity.
Conversely, more moderate groups, including Christians, Sunnis, and Druze, express a desire for stability amidst weariness from continuous conflict. The sentiment that Hezbollah exerts undue control—impeding the possibility of peace—is shared among these voices. Some propose incorporating civilian experts into the military oversight committee as a compromise to address the American proposal while simultaneously appeasing domestic opposition to normalization.
In summary, the United States has presented Lebanon with an urgent ultimatum regarding negotiations with Israel, creating a complex landscape for Lebanese leadership. While facing significant internal opposition against normalization, Lebanon must navigate external pressures that could lead to military escalation if negotiations do not commence swiftly. The contrasting public sentiment within Lebanon highlights ongoing tensions between a desire for stability and resistance to perceived compromise with Israel.
Original Source: vinnews.com
