Tensions Ease as French Proposal Aims to Halt Clashes Between Israel and Hezbollah
Discussions continued on Saturday about a French proposal designed to ease tensions and halt clashes between the Israeli army and Hezbollah along Lebanon’s southern border. Lebanese officials received an amended version of the proposal on Friday, which summarized meetings held by Stephane Sejourne, France’s foreign minister, in Lebanon and Israel. The proposal aims to ensure the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, adopted in 2006 to resolve the war between Israel and Hezbollah that year.
Decrease in Hostilities
On Friday and Saturday, there was a noticeable decline in hostilities between the two sides in southern Lebanon, though there were exceptions. One such exception was the targeting of the “Israeli Meron Airbase in the Safed area on Friday from Lebanese territories,” according to Israeli authorities. Hezbollah did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack but did shell the Israeli site of Bayad Blida at dawn on Saturday while Israeli soldiers were present.
Diplomatic Processes
In addition to the diplomatic processes related to the French peace plan, Lebanese authorities were also awaiting the outcome of negotiations in Cairo for a possible agreement between Israel and Hamas on a ceasefire in Gaza. Hezbollah had previously linked any end to hostilities in southern Lebanon along the border with Israel to a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
French Peace Plan Details
The French peace plan refers to a previous ceasefire agreement signed by Israel and Lebanon on April 26, 1996, and highlights steps that can be taken to stop the escalation and ensure the effective implementation of UN Resolution 1701. The proposal includes recommendations such as creating a monitoring group with the US, France, Lebanon, and Israel to oversee implementation and address complaints from involved parties in stages.
Implementation Phases
The first phase of the initiative requires Lebanese armed groups to halt military operations inside Israel and disputed border regions, refrain from attacking UNIFIL personnel or facilities, and guarantee freedom of movement for UNIFIL forces. Israel is required to halt military operations inside Lebanon, refrain from actions that may put UNIFIL at risk, and ensure freedom of movement for UNIFIL forces.
The second phase involves dismantling installations near the Blue Line and withdrawing combat forces and military capabilities. Israel is also urged to stop flying over Lebanese airspace. The third phase includes resuming talks about land borders between Lebanon and Israel with UNIFIL support.
Overall, the French proposal aims to de-escalate tensions and ensure peace along the southern border of Lebanon. With ongoing discussions and diplomatic efforts, there is hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.