ALBAWABA- A high-level meeting in the Lebanese border town of Naqoura brought together representatives from Israel, Lebanon, the United States, and France to discuss border issues and withdraw from Lebanese land.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the parties agreed to form three joint working groups to address key disputes, including Israeli-controlled points in southern Lebanon, border demarcation along the UN-patrolled Blue Line, and Lebanese detainees held in Israel.
As part of the discussions, Israel announced the release of five Lebanese prisoners, framing the move as a goodwill gesture toward Lebanon’s new president, Joseph Aoun, as reported by the Israeli PM's office.
Four detainees were freed on Tuesday, with the fifth set for release on Wednesday.
U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, emphasized Washington’s commitment to resolving border disputes, noting that six out of thirteen contentious points remain problematic.
Ortagus expressed optimism about reaching a final resolution on the remaining Blue Line issues.
However, tensions persist despite diplomatic efforts. On the same day as the Naqoura meeting, Israel carried out airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting Hizbollah operatives.
The Israeli military claimed to have killed Hassan Abbas Ezzedine, a senior Hizbollah figure responsible for drone and missile operations. A second strike targeted gunmen in Froun, with Lebanese reports confirming two casualties.
Although a ceasefire was brokered on November 27 following over a year of hostilities, Israel has continued operations in Lebanon, citing security concerns. While initially expected to withdraw by February 18, Israeli forces remain stationed in five strategic locations.
The ceasefire agreement also mandated Hizbollah’s pullback beyond the Litani River and the dismantling of military infrastructure in the south, but the situation remains volatile.
