Israel is negotiating with Lebanon to demarcate their border and withdraw from five outposts, following a meeting in Naqoura with key representatives. Three joint working groups will focus on these issues, including the release of detainees. A ceasefire has been in place since November, amid reported violations by Israel.
Israel has initiated negotiations with Lebanon to define their border and withdraw from five military outposts in southern Lebanon, per Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement on Tuesday evening. This statement followed a significant four-party meeting in Naqoura, which included representatives from the Israeli military, the United States, France, and Lebanon, as reported by Netanyahu’s office.
The outcome of the Naqoura talks led to the establishment of three joint working groups aimed at stabilizing the region. These groups will address critical matters, notably the Israeli withdrawal from five strategically located points in southern Lebanon, as well as the reassessment of the pre-war land borders between the two nations.
Additionally, the ongoing negotiations will discuss the situation regarding detainees, specifically those referred to as “saboteurs” who have been held in Israel since the onset of the recent conflict. In a gesture of goodwill towards the newly elected Lebanese president and in coordination with the United States, Israel has consented to release five Lebanese detainees.
The Red Cross has since received these detainees from Israeli custody a few weeks after their capture amidst the conflict. They were subsequently transported to the Lebanese Italian Hospital in Tyre, located in southern Lebanon. A fragile ceasefire has been in effect in Lebanon since November 27, halting a protracted period of violence between Israel and Hezbollah that escalated last September.
As per the ceasefire agreement, Israel was obligated to withdraw completely from southern Lebanon by January 26, although this deadline has been extended to February 18 due to non-compliance from Israel, which continues to maintain military presence at five border outposts. Reports from Lebanese authorities indicate nearly 1,100 breaches of the ceasefire by Israel, resulting in at least 85 fatalities and over 280 injuries.
In summary, Israel’s negotiations with Lebanon aim to clarify their border and facilitate the withdrawal from five military outposts. The establishment of joint working groups signifies a proactive step toward regional stability. Furthermore, the release of detainees aligns with diplomatic gestures aimed at easing tensions. Continuous ceasefire violations highlight the fragile nature of the current peace process, necessitating careful adherence to agreements for long-term resolution.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
