Progress in Land Border Delimitation Between Lebanon and Israel: Insights from Amos Hochstein
Former US envoy discusses the advancement in negotiations for land borders following maritime agreements and regional geopolitical factors.
Amos Hochstein, a former senior US official, has stated that the delimitation of land borders between Lebanon and Israel is 'within reach,' citing significant progress in indirect negotiations.
His comments come following the maritime boundary agreement mediated by the United States in 2022 and a ceasefire agreement involving Israel and Hezbollah expected to be finalized by the end of 2024. Hochstein emphasized that there are 'creative solutions' evidenced by records and protocols, contingent upon the political will of all parties involved.
Hochstein articulated that Hezbollah operates as an arm of Iran, influencing Lebanese politics.
He highlighted a recent meeting between former US President Donald Trump and Syrian official Ahmad al-Shara as a positive development that could benefit Lebanon.
Reflecting on the maritime agreement, Hochstein described it as unique due to over a decade of negotiation efforts.
He acknowledged that solely diplomatic efforts might not suffice, suggesting that a more comprehensive agreement was necessary to avert potential conflicts over resources.
The maritime agreement also included provisions to initiate discussions regarding land boundaries to expedite an agreement.
In the context of border security, Hochstein noted that the ceasefire agreement necessitates Israel's complete withdrawal from Lebanon and calls for Lebanese armed forces to gain full control of the area south of the Litani River, alongside the disarmament of Hezbollah within this region.
He remarked on the contrasting political landscape of 2022, when Hezbollah held greater control over the Lebanese political system than it does today, complicating negotiations.
Hochstein pointed to the success of the maritime agreement, which managed to avoid military conflict in the maritime zone.
He suggested that this framework could be adapted to resolve land border disputes.
Concerns remain regarding current border violations; however, Hochstein stressed that the success of the ceasefire hinges on fulfilling specific conditions, including strong US military support to bolster the capabilities of the Lebanese armed forces.
In discussing the historical context of border demarcations, Hochstein stated that, while the Blue Line currently governs operations, it does not constitute internationally recognized borders.
He acknowledged significant progress in indirect negotiations, albeit noting existing complex issues.
Underlining Lebanon's potential, Hochstein refrained from commenting on the Trump administration's approach to Lebanon but maintained that the country has an opportunity to reshape its future through radical rather than incremental changes.
He underscored the immense economic and job-related potential in Lebanon, which could be harnessed through substantial economic reforms.
Hochstein projected that Hezbollah's influence on Lebanese politics has diminished, reiterating that external forces should not impose their military will upon Lebanon.
He urged for a moment of Lebanese sovereign decision-making.
Regarding Syria, Hochstein expressed acknowledgment of current concerns but also focus on emerging opportunities.
He reiterated the necessity for secure borders between Syria and Lebanon and advocated for safe pathways for Syrian refugees to return home, thereby lessening regional pressures.
Hochstein concluded that Lebanon does not solely require friendships but rather investments to leverage its high-quality human capital.
By resolving governance issues, Lebanon could reclaim its status as a vibrant state, fostering coexistence among various religious groups in a manner that deserves global support.
His comments come following the maritime boundary agreement mediated by the United States in 2022 and a ceasefire agreement involving Israel and Hezbollah expected to be finalized by the end of 2024. Hochstein emphasized that there are 'creative solutions' evidenced by records and protocols, contingent upon the political will of all parties involved.
Hochstein articulated that Hezbollah operates as an arm of Iran, influencing Lebanese politics.
He highlighted a recent meeting between former US President Donald Trump and Syrian official Ahmad al-Shara as a positive development that could benefit Lebanon.
Reflecting on the maritime agreement, Hochstein described it as unique due to over a decade of negotiation efforts.
He acknowledged that solely diplomatic efforts might not suffice, suggesting that a more comprehensive agreement was necessary to avert potential conflicts over resources.
The maritime agreement also included provisions to initiate discussions regarding land boundaries to expedite an agreement.
In the context of border security, Hochstein noted that the ceasefire agreement necessitates Israel's complete withdrawal from Lebanon and calls for Lebanese armed forces to gain full control of the area south of the Litani River, alongside the disarmament of Hezbollah within this region.
He remarked on the contrasting political landscape of 2022, when Hezbollah held greater control over the Lebanese political system than it does today, complicating negotiations.
Hochstein pointed to the success of the maritime agreement, which managed to avoid military conflict in the maritime zone.
He suggested that this framework could be adapted to resolve land border disputes.
Concerns remain regarding current border violations; however, Hochstein stressed that the success of the ceasefire hinges on fulfilling specific conditions, including strong US military support to bolster the capabilities of the Lebanese armed forces.
In discussing the historical context of border demarcations, Hochstein stated that, while the Blue Line currently governs operations, it does not constitute internationally recognized borders.
He acknowledged significant progress in indirect negotiations, albeit noting existing complex issues.
Underlining Lebanon's potential, Hochstein refrained from commenting on the Trump administration's approach to Lebanon but maintained that the country has an opportunity to reshape its future through radical rather than incremental changes.
He underscored the immense economic and job-related potential in Lebanon, which could be harnessed through substantial economic reforms.
Hochstein projected that Hezbollah's influence on Lebanese politics has diminished, reiterating that external forces should not impose their military will upon Lebanon.
He urged for a moment of Lebanese sovereign decision-making.
Regarding Syria, Hochstein expressed acknowledgment of current concerns but also focus on emerging opportunities.
He reiterated the necessity for secure borders between Syria and Lebanon and advocated for safe pathways for Syrian refugees to return home, thereby lessening regional pressures.
Hochstein concluded that Lebanon does not solely require friendships but rather investments to leverage its high-quality human capital.
By resolving governance issues, Lebanon could reclaim its status as a vibrant state, fostering coexistence among various religious groups in a manner that deserves global support.
