Israel has agreed to release Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture, coordinated with U.S. mediation. This decision follows discussions held in Lebanon, where officials expressed concerns over Israeli actions and called for more pressure for withdrawal from southern Lebanon. U.S. officials have pledged to assist in resolving outstanding issues.
In a significant diplomatic move, Israel has agreed to release Lebanese detainees as a gesture of goodwill towards the Lebanese president, with coordination from the United States, as announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. This decision follows a series of meetings held in Lebanon aimed at improving relations and addressing ongoing grievances.
On a recent Tuesday, ambassadors from the Quintet Committee met with the Speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri, who expressed concerns regarding Lebanon’s treatment. He indicated to the diplomats, particularly the U.S. and French representatives, that Lebanon feels “punished” despite fulfilling its ceasefire obligations, while Israel maintains its occupation of parts of southern Lebanon and conducts operations against Lebanese civilians and military personnel.
Additionally, President Joseph Aoun met with U.S. Major General Jasper Jeffers, head of the committee responsible for implementing Resolution 1701, where the topic of Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon was also discussed. President Aoun urged for increased pressure on Israel to facilitate the withdrawal and return Lebanese detainees.
In light of these discussions, U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, announced that the United States will assist in fostering diplomatic dialogue between Lebanon and Israel. The talks will aim to address unresolved issues, including the release of detainees and disputed positions along the Blue Line, where Israeli forces remain stationed.
The recent agreement by Israel to release Lebanese detainees signals a potential thaw in relations between the two nations, facilitated by U.S. mediation. Key figures have called for further diplomatic efforts to resolve outstanding regional issues, including Israeli withdrawals and the treatment of civilians. This development suggests a constructive step towards peace and cooperation in a historically tense region.
Original Source: www.lbcgroup.tv
