US-brokered talks between Lebanon and Israel seek to resolve outstanding issues

BEIRUT — In a significant diplomatic development, Lebanon and Israel have agreed to initiate negotiations to resolve several outstanding issues, with intensive mediation by the United States. These talks come in the wake of the release of five Lebanese prisoners previously held by the Israeli Army.

Details of Upcoming Talks

US Deputy Special Envoy to the Middle East Morgan Ortagus announced that Lebanon and Israel have committed to engaging in diplomatic negotiations to address their long-standing disputes, including border conflicts and the issue of prisoners. The agreement was achieved after extensive mediation efforts led by the United States and other international partners.

The negotiations will involve trilateral working groups focusing on key issues, such as resolving land border disputes, addressing the fate of Lebanese prisoners held in Israel, and facilitating the withdrawal of Israeli forces from disputed areas in southern Lebanon. This initiative is expected to enhance regional stability and address long-standing tensions.

As a confidence-building measure, Israel has released five Lebanese prisoners previously in its custody. The Lebanese presidency confirmed the reception of four prisoners, with the fifth expected to be handed over soon. This development represents a positive step toward mutual diplomatic engagement.

Background of Lebanon-Israel Border Dispute

The border dispute between Lebanon and Israel has been a longstanding issue, rooted in historical conflicts and territorial disagreements.

The origins of the dispute date back to the mid-20th century. In 1978, Israel launched an invasion of southern Lebanon in response to attacks by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), aiming to push PLO forces away from its northern border. This operation led to the establishment of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), tasked with confirming Israel’s withdrawal and restoring peace and security in the area.

In 1982, following an assassination attempt on the Israeli ambassador to the United Kingdom, Israel initiated a more extensive invasion of Lebanon, reaching as far as Beirut. The operation aimed to expel PLO forces but also resulted in a prolonged occupation and the emergence of Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group backed by Iran.

The Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon continued until 2000, when Israel unilaterally withdrew its forces. The United Nations subsequently delineated the “Blue Line” to confirm Israel’s withdrawal, establishing a de facto border between the two countries.

Blue Line and Disputed Territories

Despite the establishment of the Blue Line, several territorial disputes persist. Shebaa Farms, a small strip of land claimed by Lebanon but occupied by Israel, remains a contentious area, with Israel considering it part of the Syrian Golan Heights.

Another disputed site is Ghajar Village, which straddles the border; its northern part remains under Israeli control, leading to disagreements over sovereignty and administrative authority. Similarly, the Kfarchouba Hills continue to be a source of contention, with ongoing disputes over ownership.

In total, there are 13 or 14 disputed points along the Blue Line, contributing to the sustained tensions between Lebanon and Israel.

Recent Developments

In recent years, diplomatic efforts have sought to address these disputes. In 2022, Lebanon and Israel, with US mediation, reached a maritime border agreement, facilitating the delineation of their offshore boundaries and enabling energy exploration. Building on the success of this agreement, both countries agreed in 2025 to begin negotiations over their land border disputes. These discussions, also mediated by the United States, aim to resolve longstanding issues related to the Blue Line and disputed territories.

Role of UNIFIL

UNIFIL continues to play a vital role in maintaining peace along the Lebanon-Israel border. With a contingent of over 10,000 troops from various countries, UNIFIL monitors ceasefire violations, facilitates communication between the Lebanese and Israeli militaries, and assists the Lebanese Army in ensuring that the area south of the Litani River remains free from unauthorized armed personnel.

Hopes for Stable Future

The commencement of these negotiations has raised hopes within the international community for lasting solutions to the border disputes and other unresolved issues between Lebanon and Israel. Establishing mutual trust is widely seen as a critical step toward achieving peace and stability in the Middle East.