Israel has agreed to release five Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture towards Lebanon’s new president. This reflects ongoing negotiations to address border disputes and is supported by the United States and France. Despite a ceasefire, tensions persist with Israeli airstrikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
On Tuesday, Israel announced its decision to release five Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture towards Lebanon’s newly appointed president. This move was coordinated with the United States and is aimed at fostering improved relations between the two neighboring countries, according to a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office.
The announcement followed a meeting held in Naqoura, a Lebanese border town, which included representatives from the Israeli army, the United States, France, and Lebanon. The Israeli Prime Minister’s statement noted that the meeting resulted in agreement on the establishment of three joint working groups focusing on regional stability and key issues including the Blue Line and the status of detainees.
Negotiations have opened between Israel and Lebanon to resolve border disputes, facilitated by the recent US-French mediated ceasefire. In a report, a US official indicated that the release of the five Lebanese, captured during last year’s conflict, is part of this ongoing dialogue. The Blue Line, established in 2000, serves as the internationally recognized border between the two nations.
Morgan Ortagus, the US deputy special envoy for the Middle East, indicated that the five prisoners include both civilians and soldiers, although specific identities would be announced by Lebanon’s government. This release follows a truce that has prevented further escalation of hostilities since the cessation of large-scale fighting between Hezbollah and Israel.
Despite the ceasefire taking effect, tension remains as Israel has conducted airstrikes in Lebanon aimed at curtailing Hezbollah’s military capabilities. Recently, an airstrike targeted a Hezbollah member in southern Lebanon, resulting in fatalities and injuries due to what the reports described as an Israeli drone strike.
Under the ceasefire terms, Hezbollah is required to move north of the Litani River and dismantle military infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Although Israel was expected to withdraw entirely by February, the country has retained forces in strategically significant areas.
In summary, Israel’s decision to release five Lebanese detainees is a strategic gesture aimed at strengthening its relationship with Lebanon amidst ongoing border negotiations. The establishment of joint working groups and recent ceasefire agreements indicate a commitment to resolving disputes. However, the situation remains delicate due to continued military actions and unresolved tensions between the two nations.
Original Source: news.az
