United States: A White House adviser said that the United States might step in to help resolve the border dispute between Lebanon and Israel, which has led to tensions and cross-border violence in recent months.
After a two-day visit to Lebanon, Mr. Amos Hochstein stated that it was “natural” to resolve the problem, building upon the 2022 agreement that defined the maritime border between Lebanon and Israel.
The White House adviser mentioned that he visited southern Lebanon during his trip to gain a better understanding and gather information about what’s necessary to possibly achieve an outcome.
“It is time for me to hear from the other side, and to make an assessment if this is a right time,” Mr. Hochstein stated.
The maritime border delineation has led to Lebanon beginning offshore exploration activities last week, as per the statement.
The border between Lebanon and Israel, which was established by the United Nations after Israeli forces left southern Lebanon in 2000, following their occupation that started during the Lebanese Civil War in 1982, is called the Blue Line.
In recent months, there have been surges in border violence. This included rockets being launched at Israel in response to Israeli actions against Palestinians, as well as clashes between the Lebanese Shia Muslim Hezbollah group and Israeli forces.
The village of Ghajar has been a focal point of tension. It’s split by the Blue Line, serving as the border between Lebanon and Israel. However, Israel has controlled the entire village since 2006, and Lebanese officials have claimed that Israel is constructing a wall around the entire town.
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