US Envoy Suggests Lebanon and Syria May Normalize Relations with Israel
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff suggested that Lebanon and Syria may soon normalize relations with Israel due to shifting political dynamics. Despite Lebanon’s legal restrictions against recognizing Israel, Witkoff’s comments reflect broader regional changes. Criticism arises from Palestinian commentators regarding Israel’s military actions impacting both nations. The situation remains complex with ongoing U.S. strategies involving Saudi Arabia’s potential ties with Israel.
Steve Witkoff, the U.S. envoy to the Middle East, indicated during an American Jewish Committee event that Lebanon and Syria may soon establish normalized relations with Israel. He noted that political dynamics in the region could influence this development, particularly in light of challenges faced by Iranian-affiliated groups in these nations, including Hezbollah’s diminishing power and the fallout from Bashar Al-Assad’s regime. Witkoff asserted, “Lebanon, by the way, could actually mobilize and come into the Abraham Peace Accords, as could potentially Syria.”
Witkoff’s assertions echo sentiments previously expressed by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, who suggested that Lebanon might pursue diplomatic relations with Israel contingent upon Saudi Arabia taking that step first. Currently, Lebanon does not recognize Israel, and it is illegal for Lebanese citizens to travel to Israel, with restrictions placed on individuals bearing Israeli documentation.
The comments from Witkoff have drawn criticism, specifically from Palestinian writer Yasser Zaatreh, who termed them a “tragedy” considering Israel’s recent military actions against Lebanon and Syria. He highlighted the consequences of Israel’s aggressions, including the fatalities and instability both nations have endured amid Israel’s ongoing conflicts in Gaza.
Since the onset of the Gaza war, Israel has engaged in significant military operations in Lebanon, leading to the deaths of over 4,000 people. Beyond Lebanon, Israel has targeted sites in Syria linked to Hezbollah while asserting that these strikes are aimed at diminishing Syrian military capabilities. Despite this, Syria’s interim government has expressed a desire for Israel to cease its hostilities but lacks the capacity to retaliate due to its volatile transitional phase.
Lebanese parliament member Wael Abou Faour remarked that Lebanon might only be able to agree to a truce resembling past armistice agreements with Israel. He emphasized the need for national unity amidst pressure on Lebanon to normalize relations with Israel, especially in the context of the diminished power of Hezbollah and the recent U.S.-brokered ceasefire in the region. Furthermore, Israel maintains strategic positions in southern Lebanon, emphasizing its intent to safeguard its residents.
Witkoff concluded with a tone of optimism regarding the potential for Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel following the Abraham Accords, as Gulf nations have begun establishing diplomatic ties with Israel. Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia maintains that relations with Israel hinge on the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, a stance that has been further reinforced amid ongoing violence in Gaza. President Trump has stated his commitment to facilitating such relations during his second term in office, despite causing significant controversy in the region with his remarks regarding Gaza.
In summary, the comments made by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff regarding the potential normalization of relations between Lebanon, Syria, and Israel signal a notable shift in regional dynamics. However, these assertions are received with skepticism by many, who reflect on the significant military actions taken by Israel against both Lebanon and Syria. Additionally, Lebanon’s legal and political framework currently inhibits any formal diplomatic engagement with Israel. The evolving geopolitical landscape remains intertwined with the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict, influencing stability in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
