Lebanon Divided Over Israel Talks, Internal Tensions Rise

Negotiations between Lebanon and Israel are causing a significant rift within Lebanon, leading to heightened tensions at the highest levels, according to the newspaper "Nidaa Al Watan." Members of Walid Jumblatt's party have reportedly ceased attending presidential palace meetings due to a severe disagreement over the ongoing talks with Israel.

Sources within the party expressed pessimism, stating that the Lebanese-Israeli negotiations have failed and are unproductive, citing Israel's continued actions as proof of its lack of commitment to any agreement. They believe the solution lies with the Americans, who are expected to halt attacks and secure guarantees from Israel. Criticism was also leveled against the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, Michelle Sison, for focusing solely on Hezbollah disarming.

These sources warned that Hezbollah would not relinquish its weapons under the current framework, leaving Lebanon facing a stalemate that could escalate. The report indicates that Israel intends to expand its military operations following its control of Ali Al-Tahir, Tal Al-Dabasha, and the Nabatieh region, with further targets including Jabal Al-Rihan, Jabal Al-Rafi, and other sites.

The party urged Lebanese President Michel Aoun and the negotiation team to adopt a clearer stance against Israeli actions and to revert to the principles of the 1949 armistice agreement. Concurrently, concerns are mounting over the impact of the fighting on the mountainous region, which has become a refuge for many displaced individuals from southern Lebanon.