Massad Boulos, an adviser to Donald Trump, claims peace between Lebanon and Israel is imminent while supporting Israeli settlers. His remarks have drawn criticism for normalizing illegal occupation and settlement expansion. The context of ongoing conflicts and Lebanon’s rejection of Israel complicates these assertions, with possible diplomatic implications as tensions persist in the region.
Massad Boulos, an adviser to former President Donald Trump, recently claimed that peace between Lebanon and Israel is “imminent” during a meeting with Israeli settler chief Yossi Dagan. This controversial statement has drawn backlash, particularly as it aligns with support for Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, which critics argue normalizes illegal occupation and settlement expansion in Palestinian territories.
Boulos, who is of Lebanese descent, met with Dagan in Washington, reportedly praising the settlers and expressing support for their actions. His remarks come in the context of contentious Israeli settlements, which are condemned by the international community and deemed illegal under international law. Captured in a video, Boulos addressed Dagan as “Your Excellency” while referring to the region as “Samaria,” a term used by far-right groups.
In his address, Boulos conveyed his “heartfelt appreciation” for the Israeli settlers, aspiring for swift peace between Lebanese and Israelis. However, his statements have been criticized harshly by Palestinian advocates, who argue that he supports detrimental actions against Palestinian rights. In response to his comments, Dagan expressed gratitude for Boulos’s alignment with the Trump administration, recognized for its support of Israel’s policies in the West Bank.
Boulos’s advisory role has sparked speculation regarding the possibility of Lebanon entering a peace process with Israel, despite widespread rejection from the Lebanese populace. Lebanon maintains a policy that does not recognize Israel, criminalizing interactions between its citizens and Israelis. The recent history of conflict, including significant casualties during the war between Hezbollah and Israel, reinforces the sensitivities surrounding such peace discussions.
Lebanese leaders have indicated that any future dialogues should prioritize Israel’s withdrawal from occupied territories and reaffirm the 1949 armistice agreement, rather than full normalization. Additionally, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff has echoed this sentiment, suggesting potential normalization of relations based on shifting geopolitics, with references to Hezbollah’s losses and Syria’s regime instability, while Israel’s Foreign Minister hinted that Lebanon could follow in Saudi Arabia’s footsteps regarding eventual normalization, contingent upon Palestinian independence.
In summary, Massad Boulos’s assertion of imminent peace between Lebanon and Israel has ignited significant criticism, particularly for endorsing illegal Israeli settlements. The broader implications of his remarks highlight the ongoing complexities of Middle Eastern politics, particularly concerning peace negotiations and the historical context of conflict. Lebanon’s steadfast refusal to recognize Israel and the prioritization of territorial issues underscore existing tensions, necessitating careful diplomatic considerations moving forward.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
