Massad Boulos, an adviser to Trump, claims peace between Lebanon and Israel could be imminent. His support for Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank has faced sharp criticism for normalizing Israel’s actions. The context includes significant historical conflict, with Lebanese leaders insisting on territorial rights and withdrawal before normalization can be considered.
Massad Boulos, a close adviser to former President Donald Trump, has ignited controversy with his assertion that peace between Lebanon and Israel might be “close”. This statement was made during a discussion with Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, which oversees 35 illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Boulos’s remarks have raised concerns about the normalization of Israel’s occupation and its implications for Palestinian territories.
During his meeting in Washington, Boulos praised the settlers, expressing “heartfelt appreciation” for their actions while shaking hands with Dagan, a noted proponent of settlement expansion. His use of the term “Samaria” reflects language preferred by far-right groups, thereby signaling support for the settlements, which are widely condemned by the international community as illegal.
Boulos articulated optimism for peace, stating, “We are looking forward to peace, and we are aiming for peace, and by the grace of God, this will be achieved, hopefully, soon.” These remarks have been met with backlash from Palestinian advocates, who criticize him for endorsing figures linked to territorial expansion and ethnic cleansing.
Dagan reciprocated the support, lauding the Trump administration’s backing for Israel’s ambitions and portraying the alliance as divinely ordained. He expressed confidence that their partnership is essential for a positive future in the Middle East. Boulos, an influential billionaire with Lebanese roots, has been pivotal in mobilizing Arab American support for Trump’s agenda.
The context of these comments arises amidst speculation regarding the viability of a peace agreement between Lebanon and Israel, a notion largely opposed within Lebanese society. Lebanon officially does not recognize Israel, and contact between Lebanese citizens and Israelis is illegal. The historical backdrop includes significant hostilities, with the most recent conflict resulting in the deaths of over 6,000 Lebanese during a period of intense warfare.
Israeli violations of ceasefire agreements continue to exacerbate tensions, prompting Lebanese leaders to assert that any new negotiations must ensure Israel’s withdrawal from occupied territories and reaffirm adherence to the 1949 armistice, rather than pursue full normalization. In line with this, US envoy Steve Witkoff suggested that normalization could eventually happen for Lebanon and Syria, while Israeli Foreign Minister Katz indicated that this movement may mirror relations with Saudi Arabia, contingent on Palestinian independence.
Massad Boulos’ remarks suggesting imminent peace between Lebanon and Israel have provoked considerable backlash, particularly regarding his acknowledgment of Israeli settlers and the ongoing settlement expansion. The complexity of Lebanon’s stance towards Israel, rooted in historical conflict and legal prohibitions against recognition, underscores the challenges in establishing peace. As tensions persist, any future negotiations must prioritize the withdrawal of Israeli forces and respect for international law, rather than hastily pursuing normalization.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
