Israel Releases Lebanese Detainees as Part of Border Negotiations
Israel released five Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture amid border negotiations facilitated by the US. The release came after a meeting in Naqoura, aiming to establish joint working groups to address border disputes, including the Blue Line. Concurrently, Israel conducted military strikes in Lebanon, resulting in fatalities, indicating ongoing tensions despite a recent ceasefire.
On Tuesday, Israel released five Lebanese detainees in a gesture of goodwill towards Lebanon’s newly elected president, Joseph Aoun. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced that this release was coordinated with the United States. Notably, four prisoners were freed immediately, while the fifth is expected to follow shortly after.
The decision came after a meeting in Naqoura, which included representatives from Israel, Lebanon, and mediation efforts from France and the United States. Netanyahu’s statement indicated that three joint working groups would be established to stabilize the region, focusing on five control points held by Israel in southern Lebanon, discussions regarding the Blue Line, and ongoing talks about Lebanese detainees.
The Blue Line has been the de facto border between Israel and Lebanon since 2000, monitored by the United Nations. Morgan Ortagus, the US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to resolving border disputes and mentioned that out of 13 key points, six remain contentious. Furthermore, she noted Israel’s significant territorial withdrawals, asserting confidence in forming a resolution on critical issues related to the Blue Line.
In parallel, Israel announced the elimination of a key Hezbollah militant, Hassan Abbas Ezzedine, believed to have been involved in drone and missile operations. Despite a ceasefire, Israel has maintained air operations in Lebanon, claiming they are crucial for preventing Hezbollah from rearming along its northern border. Israeli forces targeted multiple sites in southern Lebanon, leading to reported casualties.
Lebanon’s National News Agency confirmed fatalities from these strikes, including one resulting from a drone attack on Deir El-Zahrani road and another from a strike in Froun. The latest truce, established on 27 November, aims to formalize peace terms, including Israel’s planned withdrawal and mandates for Hezbollah to relocate and dismantle military infrastructure in southern Lebanon.
In conclusion, Israel’s release of five Lebanese detainees marks a strategic attempt to strengthen relations with Lebanon, coinciding with US mediation efforts regarding border disputes. The establishment of joint working groups reflects a commitment to regional stabilization. However, the continuing airstrikes and targeted killings highlight ongoing tensions, underscoring the complexity of achieving a lasting ceasefire and peaceful resolution.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
