US envoy Steve Witkoff claims Lebanon and Syria might soon normalize ties with Israel due to political shifts in the region. Despite these optimistic remarks, Lebanon’s laws prohibit recognition of Israel, complicating any potential agreements. Analysts express skepticism given Israel’s military history in the region, and calls for national unity in Lebanon emphasize local resistance to foreign pressures regarding Israeli relations.
Steve Witkoff, the newly appointed US envoy to the Middle East, suggested that Lebanon and Syria could soon normalize relations with Israel. Speaking at an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee, he highlighted potential political changes in the region that might lead to stronger ties, particularly in light of challenges faced by Iranian-affiliated groups like Hezbollah and the weakening of the Assad regime in Syria. Witkoff claimed that many significant transformations are underway, making the establishment of diplomatic relations more feasible than before.
In an earlier statement, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz echoed a similar sentiment, proposing that Lebanon might pursue diplomatic relations with Israel contingent upon Saudi Arabia’s decision to do so first. However, Lebanon’s laws currently prohibit recognition of Israel, categorizing any contact between Lebanese nationals and Israel as illegal.
Yasser Zaatreh, a Palestinian political analyst, criticized Witkoff’s assertions, calling them tragic, especially given Israel’s military actions against Lebanon and Syria in recent years. These actions have included significant cross-border skirmishes and invasions that have led to substantial casualties, particularly during the conflict that escalated in September 2024.
Recent escalations include Israel’s invasion of southern Lebanon following a ceasefire in late November 2024, as well as numerous airstrikes targeting perceived Hezbollah and Iranian positions in Syria. Despite the Syrian interim government’s calls for Israel to cease its incursions, it has refrained from military retaliation due to its current transitional status.
Lebanese parliament member Wael Abou Faour suggested that the most Lebanon might achieve is a truce agreement similar to the armistice established in 1949. He emphasized the need for national unity among Lebanese citizens to address the challenges posed by foreign influences and pressures, particularly from the United States regarding relations with Israel.
Witkoff expressed optimism for Saudi Arabia to become the next nation to normalize relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords, though the Kingdom insists that such a move must await the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Meanwhile, Trump has been advocating for deeper ties with Israel, escalating tensions with claims regarding Gaza’s future management and the resettlement of its population.
In summary, Steve Witkoff’s comments indicate a belief that Lebanon and Syria could normalize relations with Israel, potentially influenced by shifts in regional politics. However, both nations face significant legal and social barriers to recognizing Israel. As military tensions continue to affect public sentiment, the prospect of normalization remains complicated, with ongoing calls for national unity and caution from Lebanon’s representatives.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
