Beirut: Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri stated that Israel's release of several Lebanese prisoners signifies U.S. pressure on Israel to exhibit greater flexibility in its negotiations with Lebanon. He suggested that a new round of negotiations could occur around the middle of this month or shortly thereafter.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Mitri emphasized the importance of keeping Lebanon's negotiating track distinct from U.S.-Iranian talks, while acknowledging that developments in those discussions impact Lebanon's situation. He linked stalled negotiations to delays in returning displaced residents to their homes and a decline in international support for recovery efforts. Lebanon has prepared a recovery plan and received commitments from several countries to assist in facilitating the return of residents and rehabilitating affected areas.
Mitri reiterated that the government has maintained its stance on the issue of weapons and possesses the necessary political and security tools to address it. However, implementation relies on the capabilities of the Lebanese Army and the challenges it faces. He emphasized that Lebanon's internal matters cannot be detached from regional developments.
Discussing developments on the ground, Mitri noted that the creation of buffer zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza is now part of Israel's military and political strategy. He indicated that Israel views the area south of the Blue Line as a security buffer zone, and withdrawal from this area would not automatically allow residents to return.
Regarding the situation in the Ali al-Taher area, Mitri stated that Lebanon is still seeking full details of the events there. He mentioned that Israel considered the area a key center for managing military operations, linked to the presence of facilities, tunnels, and fighters. Lebanon aimed to avert a large-scale Israeli military operation by having the Lebanese Army assume responsibility, but reaching an understanding has proven challenging.
On the economic front, Mitri described the passage of the Financial Gap Law as essential for reaching an agreement with the International Monetary Fund, potentially unlocking financial support from other countries. He criticized certain political factions for opposing the discussion of the law, underscoring the necessity for Lebanon to address its economic crises while managing the war's repercussions.