Hezbollah is increasingly concerned about potential normalization talks between Lebanon and Israel. Lebanese officials have firmly denied any intent for normalization while citing border disputes as the focus of indirect negotiations. Political figures assert Lebanon’s sovereignty regarding normalizing relations with Israel, despite concerns about power imbalances favoring Israel.
Tensions are mounting within Hezbollah regarding discussions in Israel about potential normalization between Lebanon and Israel. Sources from Lebanon indicated to the pro-Hezbollah newspaper Al-Diyar that both the presidential office and the government have explicitly stated that any talk of normalization is unacceptable due to the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) presence in southern Lebanon and alleged ceasefire violations.
Officially, Lebanon has denied that indirect negotiations are aimed at normalization, clarifying that these discussions revolve solely around border disputes, excluding the contentious Mount Dov area. This revelation has stirred apprehension within both Hezbollah and its allied Shiite group, the Amal Movement, regarding potential shifts in political dynamics.
Political leaders in Beirut have asserted a strong national consensus on the matter, stating that normalization cannot be imposed on the country. They acknowledged that while Israel may currently hold a favorable balance of power, this dynamic is not permanent, hinting that the pro-Iranian axis, inclusive of Hezbollah, retains various strategies to influence the situation.
Lebanese sources conveyed that the U.S. administration recognizes that Lebanon will not pursue normalization without a two-state solution, firmly aligned with the broader Arab position, particularly that of Saudi Arabia. This pertains to discussions about peace in the region, which Israel currently seems distant from accepting.
Hezbollah parliament member Ali Fayyad emphasized Lebanon’s unwavering stance against normalization with Israel, labeling it an enemy that threatens Lebanon’s identity and interests. He remarked that the resistance has significant popular support and should not be underestimated. Additionally, Fayyad warned relevant parties to refrain from miscalculating the situation following Hezbollah’s loss of parliamentary majority in the recent elections.
In summary, the discourse surrounding normalization between Lebanon and Israel is fraught with tension and opposition from Hezbollah and its allies. Lebanon’s government has made its position clear, asserting that normalization is not acceptable while the IDF remains in southern Lebanon. The current geopolitical balance is acknowledged to favor Israel, yet Lebanese officials believe that Hezbollah and its allies still hold influential strategies. The stance against normalization aligns closely with regional sentiments, emphasizing a commitment to a comprehensive two-state solution.
Original Source: www.israelhayom.com
