Lebanese President Highlights Israel Talks to End Hostilities and Occupation

Middle Eastern coverage stresses that Aoun is gambling on talks with Israel to ease Lebanon’s deep crisis, while facing strong pushback from Hezbollah and its allies. Responsibility for Lebanon’s current hardship is often linked to years of conflict, Israeli occupation in disputed areas, and domestic misrule, with the talks seen as one possible way to reduce at least the security burden. Many expect fierce internal debate over any concessions on borders or resistance activity, and warn that a deal seen as favouring Israel could trigger political turmoil in Beirut.

• •Michel Aoun presents the talks with Israel as a path to end occupation in disputed border areas such as Shebaa Farms.
• •Hezbollah leaders reject the negotiations, arguing that direct talks with Israel weaken the resistance and risk legitimising Israeli control.
• •US pressure on Lebanon to repeal the ban on ties with Israel is portrayed as an attempt to reshape Lebanon’s political red lines.
• •Regional outlets highlight that Lebanon’s economic collapse makes its leaders more eager to secure calm on the southern border.
• •Commentators in the region expect any agreement with Israel to face strong opposition in parliament and on the street if it is seen as one-sided.