Israel has begun negotiations with Lebanon for border demarcation and withdrawal from five outposts. This follows a four-way meeting in Naqoura, resulting in the establishment of three joint working groups focused on stability. Additionally, Israel agreed to release five Lebanese detainees as part of the ongoing discussions. The region is currently experiencing a fragile ceasefire.
Israel has initiated discussions with Lebanon regarding border demarcation and the withdrawal of five outposts in southern Lebanon, as announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This announcement followed a recent meeting in Naqoura, which included representatives from the Israeli military, the United States, France, and Lebanon, resulting in a commitment to form three joint working groups dedicated to stabilizing the region.
These joint working groups will focus on several critical matters, including facilitating Israel’s withdrawal from five locations in southern Lebanon and reviewing the original pre-war land border between the two nations. Furthermore, the discussions will address the release of individuals detained since the onset of hostilities, as noted in the official statement from Netanyahu’s office.
In a coordinated effort with the United States and as a gesture toward Lebanon’s new president, Israel agreed to release five Lebanese detainees. Reports indicate that the International Committee of the Red Cross subsequently received these detainees from Israeli custody. They were later transferred to the Lebanese Italian Hospital in Tyre, following their release after being captured during the recent conflict.
A fragile ceasefire has been established in Lebanon since November 27, successfully ending months of intense cross-border confrontations between Israel and Hezbollah, which escalated into full-scale warfare last September. Although Israel was slated to complete its withdrawal from southern Lebanon by January 26, this deadline has been extended to February 18 due to Israeli non-compliance. Presently, Israel continues to maintain military positions at five outposts along the border.
Reports from Lebanese authorities have documented nearly 1,100 violations of the ceasefire by Israeli forces, resulting in at least 85 fatalities and over 280 injuries.
In conclusion, Israel’s negotiations with Lebanon signify a crucial step towards demarcating their border and stabilizing the region. The formation of joint working groups aims to address significant issues including military withdrawals and the release of detainees. Despite existing tensions and reported ceasefire violations, these talks represent a potential path forward in resolving longstanding conflicts between the two nations.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
