Israel has agreed to talks to define its border with Lebanon and will release five Lebanese prisoners. This move is considered a gesture to Lebanon’s president. Israeli forces, although withdrawn from southern Lebanon, continue their military presence and air operations due to Hezbollah activities. The negotiations also involve input from the US and France as the region seeks stability after the recent conflict.
On Tuesday, Israel announced its willingness to engage in discussions aimed at delineating the border with Lebanon, coinciding with its decision to release five Lebanese prisoners held by the Israeli military. This move is described as a diplomatic gesture toward the Lebanese president. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that negotiations will involve representatives from Lebanon, the United States, and France, forming working groups dedicated to addressing the border demarcation issue.
Israel’s agreement for border discussions comes after a significant military withdrawal from southern Lebanon, which followed a ceasefire pact established in November. Nonetheless, Israeli forces remain stationed at five strategic hilltop locations and continue conducting airstrikes in the region, which they justify by citing activities linked to Hezbollah. The ceasefire was a response to over a year of hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, a faction backed by Iran.
The conflict culminated in an extensive Israeli military operation involving both aerial assaults and ground troops in southern Lebanon. This campaign led to substantial losses for Hezbollah, severely impacting its military leadership and capabilities, as many of its commanders were killed during Israeli offensives directed at the group.
In summary, Israel has consented to negotiations with Lebanon regarding border demarcation and will release five Lebanese detainees as a gesture of goodwill. This decision comes in the context of Israel’s military withdrawal after a protracted conflict with Hezbollah, which saw significant Israeli military action that notably weakened the group. The collaborative discussions entail participation from the United States and France, marking a pivotal step in regional diplomacy.
Original Source: www.algemeiner.com
