The Lebanese army announced the receipt of a soldier taken by Israel amid the release of four other detainees. This exchange is viewed as a goodwill gesture towards President Joseph Aoun, following a truce that has largely halted hostilities with Hezbollah. The situation remains sensitive, with intermittent Israeli airstrikes reported in the region.
The Lebanese army announced that it received a soldier taken by Israel last weekend, following the release of four other detainees earlier this week. The soldier was transferred to a hospital for treatment after being handed over via the International Committee of the Red Cross.
On Tuesday, Lebanon received four Lebanese prisoners who had been detained by Israeli forces during their conflict with Hezbollah. The Lebanese presidency confirmed that these individuals were taken the previous weekend, with the army stating the fifth prisoner was due for release the following day.
Israel has characterized the release of these detainees as a goodwill gesture towards Joseph Aoun, Lebanon’s newly appointed President. This was echoed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, which stressed that the release was coordinated with the United States.
The decision to release the detainees emerged from a meeting in the border town of Naqoura attended by members of the Israeli army, the United States, France, and Lebanon. U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, highlighted that the released individuals included both civilians and soldiers.
A truce mediated by the US and France was established on November 27, significantly reducing hostilities that surged over the past year, particularly during a two-month period of intense conflict. Despite the ceasefire, Israel continues to conduct airstrikes on Lebanon, citing the need to curb Hezbollah’s military capabilities along its northern border.
In conclusion, the recent exchange of detainees between Israel and Lebanon signifies a step toward diplomatic engagement, guided by goodwill gestures towards Lebanon’s new leadership. The ongoing ceasefire and meeting of international representatives showcase the efforts to stabilize relations, despite continued tensions and periodic military actions.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
