Israel and Lebanon have launched negotiations to resolve border disputes, involving representatives from both nations, the U.S., and France. The discussions will focus on three main issues: strategic points in Southern Lebanon, the Blue Line, and Lebanese detainees. Additionally, five Lebanese detainees were returned to Lebanon as a goodwill gesture.
On Tuesday, negotiations commenced between Israel and Lebanon to address the border issues between the two nations. Representatives from the Israel Defense Forces, along with officials from the United States, France, and Lebanon, convened in Naqoura, Southern Lebanon. They agreed to form three joint working groups to promote stability in the region.
The focus of these working groups will encompass three key areas: the five strategic points in Southern Lebanon that Israel currently controls after the lapse of the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, discussions concerning the Blue Line and outstanding territorial disputes, and the situation of Lebanese detainees in Israeli custody.
In a gesture of goodwill toward Lebanon’s newly elected president, and with U.S. coordination, Israel transferred five Lebanese detainees back to Lebanon. This transfer was executed through the Rosh Hanikra crossing, accompanied by a Red Cross convoy to ensure the process’s integrity and safety.
The initiation of border negotiations between Israel and Lebanon represents a crucial step towards achieving stability in the region. By establishing joint working groups and addressing pressing issues such as territorial disputes and the status of detainees, both nations are taking significant strides in diplomatic dialogues. The goodwill gesture of transferring detainees further illustrates a commitment to fostering a cooperative relationship between the two countries.
Original Source: www.clevelandjewishnews.com
