Hezbollah is increasingly concerned about potential normalization talks between Lebanon and Israel. Lebanese officials strongly oppose any such move, emphasizing that it cannot be imposed on the country. Despite pressures, they believe that options for Hezbollah and its allies remain viable, and Lebanon will maintain its alignment with broader Arab stances, particularly concerning a two-state solution.
The dynamics of power in Lebanon are increasingly strained as Hezbollah reacts to ongoing discussions of potential normalization between Lebanon and Israel. Reports indicate that both the presidential office and the government have conveyed to influential groups that any form of normalization with Israel is fundamentally unacceptable, particularly due to the IDF’s presence in southern Lebanon and perceived ceasefire violations.
Officially, Lebanon has denied that the indirect negotiations occurring between the two nations aim at normalization, maintaining that these discussions are strictly related to border disputes, excluding the contentious Mount Dov area. Despite this clarification, news of these talks has generated significant apprehension within Hezbollah and its ally, the Amal Movement.
Political leaders in Beirut emphasize that Lebanon’s stance on normalization is strong and enjoys widespread consensus, asserting that Brazil cannot be coerced into such an arrangement. However, they noted that while the current power distribution appears to favor Israel, this situation is not static, suggesting that Hezbollah and its allied pro-Iranian factions possess numerous strategies that remain untapped.
Furthermore, Lebanese sources indicated that the U.S. understands that Lebanon is unlikely to pursue normalization, asserting that the nation will continue to align with broader Arab perspectives, especially that of Saudi Arabia. This alignment asserts that normalization is contingent on progress towards a two-state solution, which remains elusive according to Israeli positions.
In light of these developments, Hezbollah parliament member Ali Fayyad firmly articulated, “Lebanon has not accepted and will not accept normalization with the Israelis. Israel is an enemy that contradicts Lebanon’s existence, identity, and interests.” He emphasized the significance of the resistance movement, representing the majority of Lebanese sentiments, whilst cautioning, “Do not let anyone miscalculate.”
In summary, Hezbollah expresses significant apprehension regarding discussions of normalization with Israel amid fears of a shifting power dynamic within Lebanon. Political consensus in Beirut rejects any form of normalization, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to aligning with broader Arab initiatives. Despite current challenges, leaders from Hezbollah affirm their resistance against Israeli influence, suggesting that numerous strategic options remain available to them.
Original Source: www.israelhayom.com
