Senior sources in Israel and Lebanon expressed optimism that a deal could be reached that would allow Israel to ease pressure on the second front as it continues to fight the Palestinian Hamas movement in Gaza.
According to an Israeli official, Israel’s security cabinet will meet on Tuesday, where it will likely approve the draft agreement, after which it will be announced by the American and French presidents, Joe Biden and Emmanuel Macron. Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bu Habib expressed hope that an agreement will be concluded on Tuesday night.
According to sources, the agreement provides for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon and the deployment of the Lebanese army in the region within 60 days. In turn, Hezbollah will end its armed presence along the border south of the Litani River.
Bu Habib added that the Lebanese army is ready to deploy 5,000 troops in southern Lebanon after the withdrawal of Israeli forces. The United States can help rebuild infrastructure destroyed by Israeli attacks.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby said the deal is close to completion, but stressed that it is not yet complete. French authorities reported significant progress in the negotiations.
In turn, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stressed that Israel expects the UN to effectively monitor compliance with a possible ceasefire and said that Israel will show “zero tolerance” for its violations.
The agreement will also allow Israel to maintain the ability to take defensive measures against Hezbollah threats and ensure the safe return of displaced people to northern Israel.
Recall that Kursor wrote that former Israeli Defense Minister, head of the NDI, Avigdor Lieberman, believes that the new agreement with Lebanon is openly defeatist.
