A new dynamic in Israel-Lebanon relations has emerged marked by the Naqoura meeting, involving key representatives from both nations and allies. The establishment of joint working groups aims to address IDF withdrawal, prisoner release, and border disputes. Key challenges include Hezbollah’s military capabilities and the Lebanese government’s role in maintaining stability. Israel must prioritize its security while approaching negotiations cautiously.
A nascent spirit in relations between Israel and Lebanon has emerged following a quadrilateral meeting in Naqoura, attended by representatives from both nations, along with delegates from the United States and France. This development is attributed to a political transition in Lebanon, marked by the election of President Joseph Aoun and the new government of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
During the meeting, three joint working groups were established to address significant issues: (1) the withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) from five strategic points along the border, (2) the release of Lebanese prisoners held by the IDF, and (3) the ongoing disputes regarding border demarcation, specifically pertaining to the Blue Line established in 2000.
Israel has committed to the release of five out of eleven Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture towards President Aoun. These matters align with Hezbollah’s rationale for its existence, rooted in the assertion that it is essential for Lebanon’s defense and liberation from perceived Israeli threats.
Since the ceasefire, Hezbollah has concentrated efforts on rebuilding its military capabilities while begrudgingly permitting the Lebanese state to pursue these objectives. However, Hezbollah’s warning implies that it will act independently should the Lebanese government falter in fulfilling these goals.
Recently appointed leaders in Israel and Lebanon possess a mutual interest in sustaining the ceasefire and thwarting Hezbollah’s resurgence, both militarily and politically. For the Lebanese leadership, Israeli concessions on these issues are beneficial in their struggle against Hezbollah’s influence.
Nevertheless, Israel must recognize the limitations of the Lebanese state and its current avoidance of conflict with Hezbollah, alongside the Lebanese army’s limited capacity to counter Hezbollah’s presence in southern Lebanon. To navigate these complexities, Israel should direct the working groups’ discussions toward territorial matters, prioritizing its security needs.
Israel’s approach should entail conditioning the IDF’s withdrawal from the war-captured positions on the Lebanese army’s successful deployment in the area and its commitment to expelling Hezbollah’s military presence. Additionally, Israel should uphold the IDF’s operational freedom to counter any threats from Hezbollah.
Furthermore, the permanent demarcation of land borders, which requires Israeli concessions, should be framed within a comprehensive agreement with Lebanon. This accord must insist on the complete disarmament of Hezbollah and a reformulation of official relations between the two nations.
In conclusion, recent developments signal a potential transformation in Israel-Lebanon relations, influenced by new leadership in Lebanon. The establishment of working groups to address longstanding issues underscores a collaborative spirit, although challenges remain, particularly concerning Hezbollah’s influence. Israel’s security priorities and the efficacy of the Lebanese state will be critical in these ongoing discussions as both nations seek to improve their relationship while tackling border and military issues.
Original Source: aurora-israel.co.il
