ALBAWABA- Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced that U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein has informed him of an upcoming trip to Israel aimed at securing a ceasefire.
Mikati emphasized Lebanon’s commitment to implementing United Nations Resolution 1701, which includes deploying the Lebanese Army to the south to bolster stability, expressing confidence that its full application could bring long-term peace to the region.
Mikati called for a ceasefire guaranteed by the United States, stressing that the path to stability is through Resolution 1701’s full implementation.
The Israeli Broadcasting Authority confirmed Hochstein is working on a formal agreement between Israel and Lebanon.
Channel 13 Israel reported substantial progress in the talks, with sources stating that the Israeli army could withdraw from Lebanon within a week, though it may resume operations if the ceasefire is violated.
Notably, Channel KAN has outlined the primary points of a potential agreement between Israel and Lebanon aimed at reinforcing UN Resolution 1701.
Both countries are expected to reaffirm their commitment to the resolution, allowing for self-defense if necessary. The Lebanese Army, alongside UNIFIL forces, will be the only authorized military presence in southern Lebanon, replacing all non-official armed groups.
Arms sales and production in Lebanon will be strictly supervised by the Lebanese government to prevent the rearmament of any unofficial groups.
Additionally, Lebanon will monitor its borders to curb weapon smuggling and dismantle unauthorized weapon facilities south of Line A. The agreement specifies that Israel will withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon within seven days, with U.S. and international supervision overseeing the transfer of control to the Lebanese Army.
Furthermore, the Lebanese Army will be required to establish key border checkpoints by a set deadline and disarm unofficial military groups in the south within 60 days of the agreement signing, establishing a timeline for lasting stability and demilitarization in the region.
