Israel to Release Five Lebanese Detainees in Effort to Stabilize Relations

Israel plans to release five Lebanese detainees as a goodwill gesture towards Lebanon’s new president, following meetings aimed at resolving border disputes. Working groups will focus on stabilizing the region and discussions related to the Blue Line and detainee status. Negotiations between Israel and Lebanon are underway amid a sustained ceasefire, despite intermittent military actions by Israel against Hezbollah.

Israel has announced its intention to release five Lebanese detainees as a gesture of goodwill towards Lebanon’s recently appointed president. This decision was conveyed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office and follows a meeting in Naqoura, attended by representatives from Israel, the United States, France, and Lebanon, aimed at improving relations between the two neighboring countries.

The Israeli statement indicated that the meetings resulted in plans to form three working groups focusing on regional stabilization. These groups will address five specific points controlled by Israel in southern Lebanon, discussions regarding the Blue Line, and the status of Lebanese detainees in Israeli custody.

Additionally, reports suggest that Israel’s release was part of a broader understanding between Israel and Lebanon to resolve ongoing border disputes. A U.S. official noted that this action could facilitate negotiations over the Israel-Lebanon land border, which has been a contentious issue.

US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, clarified that the detainees included a mix of civilians and soldiers, leaving the Lebanese government to disclose further details regarding their identities.

Following a US-French mediated truce on November 27, a ceasefire was established to end a protracted conflict involving Hezbollah and Israel. While the ceasefire remains effective, Israel has conducted air strikes in southern Lebanon, reportedly to counter Hezbollah’s military activities. These operations included targeting an individual associated with Hezbollah, resulting in casualties.

The ceasefire agreement mandated Hezbollah’s withdrawal from the area north of the Litani River and required the dismantling of any military infrastructure. However, Israel has opted to maintain troop presence in five strategic locations beyond the initial withdrawal deadline.

In summary, Israel’s decision to release five Lebanese detainees signifies a commitment to fostering improved diplomatic relations with Lebanon, particularly following its new presidential appointment. The formation of joint working groups aims to address critical regional issues, including border disputes and the status of detainees. While a ceasefire currently holds, tensions remain evident through Israel’s continued military strikes against perceived threats from Hezbollah.

Original Source: news.az