Massad Boulos, a Trump adviser, claims peace between Lebanon and Israel could be quickly achieved while expressing support for Israeli settlements in the West Bank. His statements have met with criticism from Palestinian advocates and highlight ongoing tensions, particularly given Lebanon’s complex political and historical context regarding Israel.
Massad Boulos, an adviser to US President Donald Trump, has ignited controversy by stating that peace between Lebanon and Israel could soon be attainable. His remarks were made during a meeting with Yossi Dagan, chairman of the Samaria Regional Council, which oversees illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank, contradicting international law. Critics argue that Boulos’s comments appear to endorse the ongoing Israeli occupation and the expansion of settlements on Palestinian land.
During the meeting in Washington, Boulos expressed admiration for the settlers, referring to Dagan as “Your Excellency” and praising their efforts. Despite widespread condemnation from the international community regarding the unlawful settlements, Boulos conveyed a sense of optimism about achieving peace in the region. “We are looking forward to peace, and we are aiming for peace, and by the grace of God, this will be achieved, hopefully, soon,” Boulos stated.
Boulos’s remarks have drawn sharp criticism, especially from Palestinian advocates who view his alignment with pro-settlement figures as a promotion of ethnic cleansing. Dagan reciprocated praise for Boulos and the Trump administration, which has supported Israel’s expansionist policies in the West Bank. He stated, “I believe, and I know, God sent us to walk together for the future of the Middle East and the future of the world.”
As a billionaire and former Lebanese parliamentary candidate, Boulos played a crucial role in rallying Arab American support for Trump. His ties to the administration have propelled him into a position of influence regarding Middle Eastern affairs. Nevertheless, the notion of normalizing relations with Israel remains contentious within Lebanon, where there is significant public opposition to any peace agreement.
The recent history of conflict between Hezbollah and Israel has left deep scars. Following a prolonged conflict, which resulted in over 6,000 Lebanese fatalities, the possibility of negotiations is complicated by Israel’s continued military incursions and violations of ceasefire agreements. Lebanon’s leadership emphasizes that any future dialogue must prioritize the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied territories and uphold the terms of the 1949 armistice agreement.
In summary, Massad Boulos’s comments regarding the potential for peace between Lebanon and Israel have stirred significant backlash due to his overt support for Israeli settler activities. As discussions of normalization continue amidst a backdrop of conflict and casualties, Lebanese sentiment remains largely against accepting any terms that do not emphasize withdrawal from occupied territories. The complexities of the situation underscore the challenges of establishing a lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
