Israeli-Lebanese maritime borders demarcation talks announced by the U.S.

TEL AVIV / BEIRUT — After a years-long dispute over the demarcation of maritime borders, the U.S. announced that a framework for talks had been reached between Israel and Lebanon after vigorous international efforts. The framework was highly welcomed by Lebanese President Michel Aoun who expressed his hope that the U.S. would continue to be an honest mediator.

The framework comes after the discovery of large quantities of oil along the coastline of the two countries.

The U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, David Schenker, stated during a press interview on Thursday that the framework was a positive step for both countries, but that, “The U.S. will continue to impose sanctions on the Lebanese parties who are allied with Hezbollah or those involved in issues of corruption.”

“The Imposition of more sanctions will continue even after Israeli–Lebanese framework,” he added, indicating that the U.S. sanctions are not restricted to a specific time-frame and would be in place indefinitely until revoked.

Speaker of Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri (Amal Movement) rejected Schenker’s comments, saying that the framework was concluded before the U.S. imposed its sanctions on Lebanese politicians.

Berri added that he had asked French President Emmanuel Macron to put pressure on Total French, an oil and gas company, to not postpone the offshore exploration for oil.

“If the border demarcation is successful, Lebanon will be able to pay off its debts,” stated Berri.

President of the Universal Syriac Union Party (USUP) Ibrahim Mrad criticized Amal and Hezbollah, saying that the only aim of pro-Iranians, like Berri, who claim to be struggling for the liberation of Palestine and welcomed the demarcation talks is to support the dilapidated Iranian currency and improve Iran’s international reputation.