Israel has initiated talks with Lebanon to demarcate their border and withdraw from five southern outposts, following a four-way meeting in Naqoura. Three joint working groups will focus on stabilization, the withdrawal, and the release of detained individuals. A ceasefire, in place since late November, is fragile amid reported violations.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel has commenced negotiations with Lebanon to delineate their borders and withdraw from five outposts located in southern Lebanon. This declaration was made following a four-way meeting in Naqoura, which included representatives from the Israeli military, the United States, France, and Lebanon, as conveyed by Netanyahu’s office.
The outcome of the Naqoura talks led to the establishment of three joint working groups aimed at stabilization within the region. These groups will tackle significant matters, such as the withdrawal of Israeli forces from five positions in southern Lebanon and a review of the original border prior to the war between Israel and Lebanon.
Furthermore, the negotiations will also focus on the release of individuals held in detention since the commencement of the conflict. In an act of goodwill and in collaboration with the United States, Israel has agreed to release five detainees from Lebanon, as indicated in the statement issued by Netanyahu’s office.
Later on the same day, the Red Cross received the five Lebanese detainees from Israel, following their capture by the Israeli military weeks prior. They were subsequently transferred to the Lebanese Italian Hospital, located in Tyre, a city in southern Lebanon.
A fragile ceasefire has been in effect since November 27, following months of escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Under the ceasefire terms, Israel was expected to withdraw completely from southern Lebanon by January 26; however, this deadline was postponed to February 18 due to Israel’s failure to adhere to the agreement. Currently, Israel continues to maintain a military presence at five border outposts, despite nearly 1,100 reported violations of the ceasefire by Israeli forces, resulting in at least 85 fatalities and over 280 injuries in Lebanon.
In summary, Israel and Lebanon are engaged in critical negotiations regarding border demarcation and military withdrawal, which involves cooperation with international entities. The establishment of joint working groups signifies an effort to stabilize the region, while the release of detainees points to a potential easing of tensions. However, the ongoing ceasefire remains fragile, with significant violations reported, highlighting the need for sustained diplomatic engagement.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
