The Israeli Channel 12 reported on Wednesday evening that the office of Netanyahu stated the Deputy Head of the Foreign Policy Department at the Israeli National Security Council held a meeting in the area of Rosh Hanikra in southern Lebanon with American advisor Morgan Ortagus and Lebanese representatives. The channel explained that the “Rosh Hanikra meeting was held this morning in a positive atmosphere, and it was agreed to draft ideas that enhance potential economic cooperation with Lebanon,” according to their statement.
Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the meeting was held under the direction of the Israeli Prime Minister himself, as part of the ongoing security dialogue between the United States. Earlier today, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced that “Lebanon is ready to engage in direct negotiations with Israel,” indicating that he will seek “American support to open a negotiation path in this regard.”
Salam stated, “I reiterate the previous offer to be ready to negotiate on the land borders and areas that Israel still holds, and when we show our readiness to negotiate, we do not receive a date, and I will bring this up with the Americans,” according to the Lebanese “MTV” channel.
Conversely, Salam accused Israel of “not adhering to the ceasefire agreement,” clarifying that it “continues to remain in five border sites that have no security or military value.” Regarding diplomatic and economic efforts, Salam revealed that “Lebanon is working with France and Saudi Arabia to hold a donors’ conference to support the reconstruction of the country and the economic recovery,” and concluded his statements by saying, “Lebanon will not miss the opportunity for change in the region this time.”
However, Israel did not commit to the date and maintained its military presence in 5 strategic points in the south of the country, continuing to carry out airstrikes against various areas in Lebanon, citing “ensuring the protection of northern settlements,” while demanding their cessation.
