U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff believes Lebanon and Syria may soon normalize relations with Israel, citing political changes in the region. Despite Israel’s historical invasions, speculations about diplomatic ties have been discussed, particularly in the context of shifting relations with Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, Lebanon’s lack of formal recognition of Israel and ongoing tensions complicate the situation.
At a recent American Jewish Committee event, U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff suggested that Lebanon and Syria might soon normalize relations with Israel. He noted the recent political shifts in the region, highlighting challenges faced by Iran-aligned groups like Hezbollah in both countries, as well as changes in Syria’s political landscape following the weakening of the Assad regime. Witkoff expressed optimism regarding potential participation of Lebanon and Syria in the Abraham Peace Accords.
Witkoff’s remarks align with earlier statements made by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, who suggested that diplomatic relations between Israel and Lebanon could be contingent upon Saudi Arabia’s actions. Despite this speculation, Lebanon does not officially recognize Israel, and it remains illegal for Lebanese citizens to enter the country if they possess Israeli documentation.
Political analysts, such as Palestinian writer Yasser Zaatreh, criticized Witkoff’s comments, citing Israel’s historical invasions of both Lebanon and Syria. He remarked that the envoy’s perspective reflects a disconnect from the realities on the ground, where tensions remain high due to previous military conflicts and ongoing instability.
The impacts of Israel’s military actions are starkly evident; the recent war in Gaza has severely affected both Lebanon and Syria. Following nearly a year of skirmishes, a significant escalation in hostilities with Hezbollah unfolded in September 2024, resulting in thousands of casualties in Lebanon. Although a ceasefire was negotiated in late November, Israel has continued violating the agreement, thereby exacerbating tensions.
In Syria, Israeli forces engaged in extensive strikes targeting Hezbollah and regime-associated sites while also launching incursions into southern Syria following the regime’s collapse. The interim Syrian government has repeatedly called for an end to Israeli assaults, though it lacks the military strength to confront Israel amidst its own transitional dilemmas.
Lebanese parliament member Wael Abou Faour stated that any affiliation Lebanon may consider with Israel would likely resemble the 1949 truce agreement rather than formal recognition. He emphasized the importance of national unity in light of U.S. pressure on Lebanon to establish relations with Israel, particularly following the recent ceasefire brokered by Washington.
Although Israel has expressed intentions to maintain strategic positions in southern Lebanon despite a failed withdrawal deadline, it claims this military presence is essential for its security against potential threats. Witkoff’s comments further reflect a strategic hope for Saudi Arabia to join the growing list of countries normalizing relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords. However, Saudi Arabia has reiterated that any normalization hinges on the establishment of a Palestinian state, especially in light of the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In summary, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff’s assertions regarding the potential normalization of ties between Lebanon, Syria, and Israel reflect ongoing geopolitical shifts in the Middle East. Despite these speculations, significant challenges and historical tensions remain, particularly regarding the legality and recognition of Israel by Lebanon. Analysts have voiced skepticism towards these claims, given the backdrop of military conflicts and the responses from both Lebanon and Syria concerning Israel’s activities.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
