Israel Releases Lebanese Captives as Border Talks Commence
Lebanon confirms the release of four hostages taken by Israel amid upcoming border negotiations. Israel has agreed to discuss border demarcation with Lebanon, the US, and France, as part of a positive gesture. The ceasefire agreement, established amid a conflict with Hezbollah, is intended to address ongoing territorial issues.
Lebanon has confirmed the release of four hostages who were taken by Israel during its conflict with Hezbollah. These individuals have arrived at a hospital in Tyre, southern Lebanon. The Lebanese office of President Joseph Aoun verified this information and indicated that an additional hostage is anticipated to be released the following day.
The handover coincides with Israel’s announcement that it will engage in discussions to demarcate its border with Lebanon. This move was described as a “gesture to the Lebanese president.” Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that they have agreed with Lebanon, the United States, and France to form working groups tasked with establishing a clear demarcation line between the two nations.
US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, commented on the situation, expressing the desire for a political resolution to the border disputes. Working groups, facilitated by the US and France, aim to address these border issues and Israel’s ongoing occupation of five strategic locations in southern Lebanon.
The ceasefire arrangement concluded over a year of conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah while coinciding with Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Under the terms of the ceasefire, Hezbollah committed to withdrawing north of the Litani River and dismantling military infrastructure in southern Lebanon.
Despite Israel’s expectation to fully withdraw from Lebanese territory by February 18, it has maintained a presence in five strategic areas. Al Jazeera’s Hamdah Salhut highlighted that a significant issue remains unresolved: the Israeli military’s continued occupation of these areas, which were to be vacated as per the ceasefire agreement.
In summary, the release of four Lebanese captives by Israel marks a significant development amid ongoing border negotiations. The intent to engage in talks facilitated by the US and France aims to resolve longstanding disputes while addressing Israel’s military presence in southern Lebanon. Moving forward, the successful implementation of the ceasefire agreement and a clear demarcation of borders will be crucial for regional stability.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
