Report: Israel Considers Symbolic Withdrawals in Lebanon Talks

Israel is weighing whether to announce “symbolic” withdrawals of its forces from southern Lebanon as part of the negotiations expected to begin soon, according to a source familiar with the matter who spoke to the Jordanian outlet Roya News. The reported move comes amid U.S. pressure on Jerusalem.

Earlier on Monday, Middle East analyst Yoni Ben Menachem warned in an interview with Tal Meir that the talks in Washington could begin with Israeli withdrawal demands before the issue of Hezbollah’s disarmament has been resolved. He said security officials told him that discussion had already started about pulling back from areas Israel captured, including Beaufort.

Ben Menachem argued that the United States is trying to dictate Israel’s exit from Lebanon before any serious solution is found to ensure the safety of northern Israeli residents. He said, “our sons are falling there,” and warned that leaving without a plan would expose the north to Radwan Force infiltration, anti-tank missile fire and rocket attacks, calling the developments “extremely dangerous.”

The report also said that among President Donald Trump’s recent proposals, aimed at curbing Israeli attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon, was an idea to let Syria, under al-Jolani’s leadership, take responsibility for disarming Hezbollah instead of Israel.