Report: Word of U.S. Reassurance over Lebanon Security, Displaced Issue

W460

The United States has reportedly appeased Lebanon’s fears about a security escalation in south Lebanon with Israel, al-Joumhouria daily reported on Friday.

“Lebanon received “American” messages, reassuring there will be no escalation in the South but a tendency to kick off negotiations with Israel regarding the demarcation of the maritime border,” the daily reported, quoting diplomatic sources who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Moreover, the “Americans have asked the Israelis to stop the work in the oil fields (in the disputed area with Lebanon or nearby) temporarily," the sources added.

They said “the Americans do not want the regional situation, including the issue of the displaced Syrians, to have an impact on Lebanon and on its security situation. They are seeking possible solutions to return the refugees to their homeland.”

Acting US Assistant Secretary of State David Satterfield has been mediating the maritime border dispute between Israel and Lebanon and met with Lebanese officials Wednesday for a second day, signaling a new push to resolve the matter.

He is set to convey the maritime border proposals of Lebanese officials to Israel.

Israel and Lebanon both claim some 860 square kilometers (330 square miles) of the Mediterranean Sea. Lebanon hopes to unleash offshore oil and gas production as it grapples with an economic crisis.

SourceNaharnet
Comments 1
Missing phillipo 17 May 2019, 17:30

"He is set to convey the maritime border proposals of Lebanese officials to Israel."
The only proposal that the Israelis should listen to is "When can we meet directly with you in order to solve the problem?"